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LOT 0707
Large Roman Bone Gaming Dice
1ST-2ND CENTURY A.D.
1/2 in. (4.98 grams, 13 mm).
Cuboid with ring-and-dot markings disposed 1:6, 2:3, 4:5. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceProperty of a European gentleman, acquired from the estate of a London collector (formed before 2000).
LiteratureCf. Allason-Jones, L. & Miket, R., The Catalogue of Small Finds from South Shields Roman Fort, Newcastle, 1984, item 2.82.
CONDITIONTimeLine Auctions follows a vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process
AUCTIONS:
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Roman Carnelian Gemstone with Gryllus in Gold Ring
2nd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £2,860
Translucent oval intaglio featuring a standing gryllus wearing a gryphon-headed helmet, flanked by the inscription 'KAΛHI' meaning 'to the beautiful one'; set in a later gold ring with a D-section hoop; supplied with a museum-quality impression. 9.29 grams, 23.83 mm overall, 20.32 x 17.88 mm internal diameter (approximate size British R 1/2, USA 8 3/4, Europe 19.38, Japan 18)
Acquired on the European art market. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.13322-257896.
Fanciful combinations of various human and animal heads, sometimes with the addition of other elements, are generally called grylloi. These fantastic devices were more than mere artists' fancies and were worn by the ancient Romans and others for their supposed efficacy in averting the evil eye. -
Roman Iridescent Glass Footed Beaker
2nd-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £338
Comprising a conical body and a flaring foot with a rolled rim. 93 grams, 10.2 cm
Acquired in the 1990s from London dealerships and auction houses. From the Lonson collection. -
Roman Garnet Gemstone with Bearded Portrait
2nd-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £72
Plano-convex type with incuse design of a profile bust with wreath to the brow and luxuriant beard; supplied with a museum-quality impression. 0.36 grams, 9 mm
From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s.
