19th c. Blue Glass Perfume Bottle

Lachrymatory or perfume bottle??

I’ve seen these referred to as “tear catchers” for years.

This term seems to have come from the small bottles found in ancient Roman and Greek tombs that people speculated to be vessels that mourners would cry into (though there is a lack of evidence that this is true).

We all know how the Victorians loved their ancient history, so perhaps this myth/theory was perpetuated during this time and became associated with these bottles as well.

I haven’t been able to find any historical evidence of these perfume bottles actually being used for this kind of mourning ritual, but I like to keep an open mind, so please send me any sources you might have! I’m fascinated by how certain myths and practices have begun and I’m always eager to learn more ✨

One thing is for certain, however—these were used as perfume bottles historically (there’s even a bit of dried, but still fragrant perfume left in one of these!).

This particular bottle is bit more unusual due to its vibrant blue color. It has the characteristic shape and gold painted design, with the addition of some white painted flowers. The original stopper is still present!