Bronze Strigil

MU4201 is a hook-shaped bronze strigil. The strigil was considered an important piece of a Roman’s personal toiletries and was typically used during their bathing routine. MU4201 has a curved dull blade and a thin looped handle. The looped handle would have allowed the strigil to be suspended and carried on a ring with an aryballos (oil flask). Strigils vary in both size and shape, with some having elaborate and detailed incised decorations on their blades. Others, such as MU4201 are simpler and more utilitarian in their design. MU4201 is intact however, a green ‘rust like’ patina can be observed on the surface of the strigil especially on the underside of the blade, which is indicative of oxidization.