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LOT 0687
Roman Bronze Bird Weight
1ST-4TH CENTURY A.D.
3/4 in. (5.7 grams, 19 mm wide).
Modelled in the round with slot to the underside. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceFrom the collection of a gentleman, acquired on the London art market in the 1990s.
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.
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Roman Floor Mosaic Tesserae Group
1st-4th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £46
Mainly cuboid in form, some embedded in concrete matrix. 182 grams total, 8-29 mm
From the collection of a late East Anglian teacher and antiquarian who retired to the Isle of Wight in Hampshire, UK. He amassed a large collection of objects between the 1960s-1980s. -
Roman Gold Filigree Bracelet
2nd-3rd century A.D.Estimate: £1,200 - 1,700 (‡+bp*)
Opening Bid: £600
Hollow-formed sheet gold penannular form with ribbed finial, applied filigree and granule ornament. 11.91 grams, 52 mm
Acquired in the mid 1980s-1990s. Private collection, Switzerland, thence by descent. Private collection, since the late 1990s. -
Roman Bronze Valve Water Spout with Head of a Lion
3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £117
Modelled as the head of a lion with curly mane and swept back ears, a short spout projecting from the open mouth; vertical socket to accept the tap attachment. 99.4 grams, 50 mm
Acquired in the mid 1980s-1990s. Private collection, Switzerland, thence by descent. Private collection, since the late 1990s.
The design of ancient Roman water valves is remarkably similar to the modern plug valve design. The design fit well with the water pressure design of the lead piping which was designed for low water pressure applications. Having water piped to a house was considered a luxury and was an indication of the social status of the house owners.
