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LOT 0830
Roman Bronze Bracelet Group
1ST-4TH CENTURY A.D.
2 1/2 - 2 5/8 in. (73 grams total, 63-66 mm).
Comprising five with round-section bodies and squared terminals; the surfaces decorated with engraved lines and dots. [5, No Reserve]
ProvenanceFrom the family collection of a Surrey gentleman since before 1960.
LiteratureCf. Boucher, S., Inventaire des Collections Publiques Françaises - 17 Vienne: Bronzes Antiques, Paris, 1971, pp.118-119, nos.125-126, for similar specimens.
FootnotesBracelets were worn in Rome by ladies of rank, but it was considered a mark of effeminacy for civilian men to use such female ornaments (Suetonius, Caligula, 52; Nero, 30). The armillae (or psellia in Greek) were rings and bracelets worn by women in the Graeco-Roman world on both legs and arms. Homer mentions them (elikas) as being part of the hairstyle of the divine Aphrodite, thus giving an almost sacred character to these objects. There were different types, the most common consisting of a more or less thick metal wire, or a flat or cylindrical circle, like our examples.
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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Eastern Roman Silver Ring with Victory Holding Wreath and Palm Branch Gemstone
2nd-3rd century A.D.Estimate: £500 - 700 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £278
With circular hoop expanding at the shoulders, oval bezel flanked by two bosses; the bezel set with a carnelian gemstone engraved with the winged goddess Victory, dressed in a chiton with overfold, walking on tiptoes to the left and holding a laurel wreath in her right hand and a palm branch in her left. 3.20 grams, 19.78 mm overall, 16.22 mm internal diameter (approximate size British K, USA 5 1/4, Europe 9.95, Japan 9)
Acquired in the late 1980s-early 1990s. Important North West London collection.
This type derives from a statue by Lysippos and appears on statues, reliefs, coins, and gems for purposes of political propaganda. In some variants on gems, Victory has her foot up on a globe, is seated and wears a helmet, an Erote gives her a palm, or the shield is propped against a trophy, a column or a palm tree. -
Roman Iridescent Glass Pyxis
1st-2nd century A.D.Estimate: £200 - 300 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £100
Formed as a cylindrical body with flanged foot to base, straight rim, lid absent. 42.7 grams, 52 mm
Acquired 1980-2015. Ex Abelita family collection. -
Roman Glass Candlestick Unguentarium
2nd-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £117
Tall thin iridescent vessel with wide base and flared rim. 29 grams, 13.1 cm high
Acquired 1980-2015. Ex Abelita family collection.
