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LOT 0869
Roman Bronze Horse Brooch
2ND-3RD CENTURY A.D.
1 5/8 in. (9.98 grams, 41 mm).
Bow-brooch with hinged pin and fusiform headplate, the bow formed as the body of a horse with spur forming the arched neck and head, catch for the forelegs. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceFrom a collection acquired on the UK art market from various auction houses and collections mostly before 2000.
From an important Cambridgeshire estate; thence by descent.
Cf. Hattatt, R., Ancient Brooches and Other Artefacts, Oxford, 1989, item 1644, for type.
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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Roman Bronze Goddess Applique
2nd-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £1,300
The goddess Tyche or Cybele with a facing female bust wearing a mural crown, braided hair cascading to the sides, high-relief lenticular eyes, and small slit mouth, two iron fixing rivets; the lower part with detailed necklace of pendants, catena decorative chain, lateral braids, ferrous fixture; old collector's label 'BR.APP.064' to verso; repaired and mounted on a custom-made display stand. 3.66 kg total, 20.5 cm including stand
Private collection of Mr S.A., Switzerland, 1990s, thence by descent.
The crown that characterises the bronze applique (corona muralis = wall crown) was a military decoration using symbolism from the Hellenistic age. Often associated with Tyche (Fortuna), the crown was also an attribute of the goddess Cybele, particularly when made of wood. However, the presence of a necklace similar to a late Roman statuette of Tyche at the Metropolitan Museum of Art seems to point more to the first identification. This bronze applique was probably used as decoration for a chariot used in a procession for the goddess, or as a furniture decoration. -
Roman Bronze-Handled Iron Key
3rd-4th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £173
With angled shank, wolf-head handle. 70 grams, 92 mm
Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of Surrey, UK, gentleman. -
Roman Gold Pendant with Garnet
1st-4th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £208
Discoid cell with integral loop, inset garnet cabochon. 0.16 grams, 9 mm
From a late Japanese specialist collector, 1970-2000s.