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LOT 0146
Large Roman Bronze Mason's Plumb Bob Weight
1ST-4TH CENTURY A.D.
2 3/8 in. (333 grams, 59 mm).
Conical body with a flaring point and top.
ProvenanceFrom the estate of Mr Eduard Steiner, Hainburg/Carnuntum (1933-2025).
Acquired on the European art market.
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AUCTIONS:
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Roman Carnelian Gemstone with Lion
2nd-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £78
With intaglio lion resting with forepaws extended. 0.44 grams, 10.16 mm
From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s. -
Roman Gold Double Ring with Bead
1st-2nd century A.D.Estimate: £700 - 900 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £350
Comprising two broad sheet-gold hoops, each with reeded outer face, joined with applied granules below and a wire loop above, securing a facetted glass bead. 3.52 grams, 31 mm
Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman. -
Roman Terracotta Bullae, Tesserae or Token Group
3rd century B.C.-1st century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £52
A mixed group of ceramic bullae, tesserae or theatre tokens bearing low-relief motifs, mainly consisting of profile busts of deities. 35 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.
