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LOT 0705
Late Roman Iron Branding Signaculum
CIRCA 3RD-6TH CENTURY A.D.
8 in. (233 grams, 20.2 cm).
Displaying a monogram composed of Latin letters A and R; tapering round-section socket. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceAcquired 1990s-early 2000s.
East Anglian private collection.
See Baratta, G., 'Roman Signacula / Una particolare categoria di signacula: marchi per legno, pellame ed animali', in Mayer, M., Olive, G., Baratta, G., Guzman Almagro, A. (ed.), XII Congressus Internationalis Epigraphiae Grecae et Latinae, Barcelona, 2007, pp.99-108, figs.3, 7, for similar stamps.
FootnotesThe signacula used for branding were distinguished primarily by the presence of a relatively long metal arm, which could reach a length of 50 cm. This arm could sometimes be hollow to allow the insertion of a wooden handle. The presence of the long arm constitutes the main indication for the use of these signacula in the context of branding. Its length allowed the user to keep a safe distance from the source of heat.
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AUCTIONS:
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Marble Head of a Boy
Roman, 1st-4th century A.D. or laterSold for (Inc. bp): £312
Modelled facing in the round with naturalistic features. 6.2 kg, 21 cm high
Acquired 1960s-1990s. Late Alison Barker collection, a retired London barrister. -
Roman Gold Miniature God Pendant
2nd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £364
The male figure shown nude with his hands held in front of his genitals, depicted with beard and stylised facial features; remains of suspension loop above. 1.08 grams, 16 mm
UK private collection before 2000. UK art market. Property of a London gentleman. -
Late Roman Iron Branding Signaculum
5th-6th century A.D.Estimate: £100 - 140 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £40
Featuring an elaborate monogram composed of Greek letters M and O, supported by decoratively twisted prongs; tapering cylindrical socket. 521 grams, 37.5 cm
Acquired 1990s-early 2000s. East Anglian private collection.
Branding stamps or signacula, in particular those with large single letters, were used for marking livestock to identify the ownership, the breed, the quality and other features of the animal. The signacula were usually made in bronze, but iron examples are also preserved.
