_Lachrymatories_ (Vol. ii., pp. 326. 448.).--In illustration of the
question as to the _probable_ use of those small vases so commonly found in
sepulchral monuments, I extract the following from _Wayfaring Sketches
among the Greeks and Turks_. 2d edit. Introduction, pp. 6, 7. London:
Chapman, 1849.
"The poorest of the sepulchres is certain to contain (in Greece) at
least a few of these beautiful vases, the lachrymatories, &c.
* * * * *
When found in the graves of females, their form would generally seem to
indicate that they had been used for containing scents, and other
requisites of the toilet; in one that was found not long since, there
was a preparation evidently (?) of rouge or some such paint for the
face, &c., _the mark left by the pressure of two fingers of a small
hand was distinctly visible_ (?)."
To me, ignorant as I am of antiquarian matters, this sounds very curious;
and I send it you in case you may find it worthy of insertion, as
provocative of discussion, and with the utilitarian idea that _I_ may gain
some information on the subject.