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LOT 0663
Roman Balsamarium with Spool-Type Mouth
1ST-2ND CENTURY A.D.
4 3/4 in. (207 grams, 12 cm high).
A piriform bronze balsamarium with a broad rounded shoulder, slender waisted neck and squat, spool-type mouth.
ProvenanceFrom the collection of the late Dr D.G., Surrey, UK.
LiteratureCf. Marin, E., Longae Salonae, Split, 1994, no.2, p.154, volume II, for a similar balsamarium.
FootnotesSuch vessels, with their high-bellied body, are similar to examples from Palestine, Pompeii, Phocis, Brigetio and Salona. They are not fitted with handles, meaning that they were not part of a portable set.
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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A bronze herm lock element representing the god Hermes, with a stylised and beardless face, long hair descending with two parallel lines on the chest with engraved stylised caduceus, finial with a plinth and a squared pin to the reverse. 110 grams, 16 cm
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This miniature herm, with a stylised caduceus engraved on the breast, possibly represents the god Hermes. It could have been used as a lock for a casket or a box where money was kept. Hermes was the protector of homes, symbolised by the Herma (from Hermes), a square or rectangular pillar of stone or bronze topped by a bust of the god. -
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A silvered bronze finger ring with stepped shoulders, large ellipsoid bezel with incuse ropework border and stylised figure raising a fish. 6.43 grams, 24.13 mm overall, 17.48 mm internal diameter (approximate size British O, USA 7, Europe 14.98, Japan 14)
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Roman Balsamarium with Spool-Type Mouth
1st-2nd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £845
A piriform bronze balsamarium with a broad rounded shoulder, slender waisted neck and squat, spool-type mouth. 207 grams, 12 cm high
From the collection of the late Dr D.G., Surrey, UK.
Such vessels, with their high-bellied body, are similar to examples from Palestine, Pompeii, Phocis, Brigetio and Salona. They are not fitted with handles, meaning that they were not part of a portable set.
