The usefulness of glass in the Roman Empire cannot be overestimated. It was used practically in all spheres of day-to-day life: in small bottles, boxes, glass alabastra, cosmetics, perfumes. Besides, glass was added to semi-precious stones (amethyst, sapphire, emerald, etc.). Romans manufactured the glass through the production technique called glassblowing. As glass production became extensive, the availability of such graceful material made the Romans changed their drinking habit; glass cups became extremely popular within a short period of time.
Regarding Roman cults, needless to say, that the majority of them were associated with death and the afterlife. In particular, the cults were designed to ensure a good afterlife for the participants and true believers. There were numerous of them; yet, unfortunately, to this day, there are left few written sources that describe the Roman mystery cults. One of the cults is called Isis, which was partly imitated from the Egyptians and Greek traditions. The goddess named Isis protected crops, which were fundamentally important for people’s subsistence.
Roman portrait collection was used in various places: sculptures, funerals, coins, gems, glass. Portrait sculptures were mostly linked with funerals: traditionally, the portrait of a dead man was depicted on the tomb, together with the short inscription. Besides, portraits were frequently utilized to commemorate individuals who achieved particular success in a public sphere. In other words, it was a sign of honor dedicated to the person who deserves it. And lastly, portrait sculptures were engraved on coins that the people used throughout the Empire. Coin portraits allowed to disseminate the glory and legitimacy of emperors very rapidly around the country.
For example, while Augustus was in power, he was granted the position of chief state priest. Due to that, numerous sculptures and monuments were erected to glorify the Emperor. For example, the monument called Ara Pacis Augustae built from 13 to 9 B.C. was one of the most renowned sculptures that were constructed. The ubiquity of sculptures and statues like the one played an important role in the transformation of the city under Augustus’ rule.