A mixed group of ceramic bullae, tesserae or theatre tokens bearing low-relief motifs, mainly consisting of profile busts of deities. 31 grams total, 14-20 mm



From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s.

The term 'tessera' was used in Roman times to convey the Greek term σύμβολον (token). Small tiles are known as tokens, often shaped like coins, made of metal (copper, lead, iron), clay, bone, wood, or glass, stamped as well as engraved. The tokens, however, are not exclusively coin-shaped, as the Latin term 'tessera' suggests by etymologically referring to a square or at least a four-sided shape and confirmed in several cases by material remains of the past. Tokens and tesserae seem to have been used both in Athens and Rome for the distribution of goods. According to written sources, the term token is identified with credentials of the official authorities. They have also been interpreted as tokens of identity, as entrance tickets to theatre performances, tribunals or assemblies of citizens, archival material of seal engraving, as pawns in games, Charon’s obols and even as amulets.

Penannular body with stylised beast-head finials, pointillé decoration on the body. 23.38 grams, 63 mm



Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.

Modelled in the round with a short tail and exaggerated beak; sockets to the eyes to accept glass inserts. 46 grams, 52 mm



From the collection of a gentleman, acquired on the London art market in the 1990s.

The cloven hoof with both main toes and dewclaws, with detailing beneath the toes, incised fur detailing. 50 grams, 52 mm



Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.

Comprising a tapering round-section handle and an ovoid, deep bowl. 16.3 grams, 18.5 cm



From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s.

A mixed group of ceramic bullae, tesserae or theatre tokens bearing low-relief motifs, mainly consisting of profile busts of deities. 35 grams total, 15-22 mm



From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s.

The term 'tessera' was used in Roman times to convey the Greek term σύμβολον (token). Small tiles are known as tokens, often shaped like coins, made of metal (copper, lead, iron), clay, bone, wood, or glass, stamped as well as engraved. The tokens, however, are not exclusively coin-shaped, as the Latin term 'tessera' suggests by etymologically referring to a square or at least a four-sided shape and confirmed in several cases by material remains of the past. Tokens and tesserae seem to have been used both in Athens and Rome for the distribution of goods. According to written sources, the term token is identified with credentials of the official authorities. They have also been interpreted as tokens of identity, as entrance tickets to theatre performances, tribunals or assemblies of citizens, archival material of seal engraving, as pawns in games, Charon’s obols and even as amulets.

With intaglio cockerel on a baseline with frond; supplied with a museum-quality impression. 0.90 grams, 13.26 mm



From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s.

Rectangular panel with intricate foliate decoration, two gilt rosettes at the centre and four attachment studs on the reverse. 29.1 grams, 64 mm



Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.

Intaglio winged Victory standing with one arm extended; supplied with a museum-quality impression. 0.29 grams, 8.81 mm



From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s.

With a broad plano-convex base, sturdy tubular body, everted and rolled rim. 137 grams, 75 mm



From a specialist collection of glass, acquired from dealerships during the 1990s.

Penannular rectangular-section body divided into segments with linear decoration. 29.7 grams, 59 mm



Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.

A hollow-form figurine of a dove, with annular eyes, small wings and an open beak. 22 grams, 42.5 mm



From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s.