Acerra (incense box)
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In Ancient Roman sacrificial tradition, an acerra (Greek: λιβανωτρίς) was the incense box used in sacrifices. The incense was taken out of the acerra and let fall upon the burning altar; hence, we have the expression de acerra libare. (turibulum)
The acerra was also, according to Festus, a small altar, placed before the dead, on which perfumes were burnt. There was a law in the Twelve Tables, which restricted the use of acerrae at funerals.
References
[edit]This article incorporates text from a publication now in the public domain: Smith, William, ed. (1870). "Acerra". Dictionary of Greek and Roman Antiquities. London: John Murray.