Loading, please wait...
LOT 0811
Roman Bronze Artefact Group
1ST-4TH CENTURY A.D.
1 - 1 3/4 in. (38.7 grams total, 25-45 mm).
Comprising: a lion-headed nude male figure in running position; two hand pendants making the fica gesture; a wolf-head(?) shaped mount. [4, No Reserve]
ProvenanceFrom the collection of a gentleman, acquired on the London art market in the 1990s.
LiteratureCf. a similar 'Manus Fica' amulet in PAS (FindID 256624-KENT-4DA2EF).
FootnotesThe 'manus fico' (literally 'fig sign') is a gesture made with the hand, and fingers curled, with the thumb thrust between the middle and index fingers. In Roman culture, this was a sign of fertility or good luck and would have warded off the evil eye. Phallic amulets were popular items amongst the Roman army.
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:
TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.
-
Roman Bronze Ring
3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £72
Featuring a D-section hoop with wide, angled shoulders, a round bezel with a quiver(?) and an arrow. 6.34 grams, 27.81 mm overall, 14.31x18.22 mm internal diameter (approximate size British I 1/2, USA 4 1/2, Europe 8.07, Japan 7)
From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s. -
Eastern Roman Chalcedony Gemstone with Standing Figure
Circa 2nd-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £111
Plano-convex in section with incuse standing figure with arms raised, objects in the field, legend beside the lower leg. 1.88 grams, 15.98 mm
From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s. -
.jpg)
Roman Bronze Eagle Statuette
Eastern Empire, 3rd-4th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £104
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.
