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LOT 0771
Roman Bronze Horse Whorl Brooch
3RD-4TH CENTURY A.D.
1 1/4 in. (11.6 grams, 32 mm).
With horse-head decoration to each arm, each head with punched ring-and-dot eye, and a similar motif to the centre; catchplate and hinged pin to verso. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceAcquired on the London art market in the late 1980s-1990s.
From the family collection of an East London, UK, gentleman.
Cf. Petcu, R., ‘Swastika-shaped fibulae with horse-head decorations (Almgren 232) from the Roman period in Dobrudja (Moesia Inferior)’ in Studia Antiqua et Archaeologica, 25(1); pp.113-122, fig.4.
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 Ring with 'may he live' Inscription
2nd-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £52
With scrolled shoulders, ellipsoid bezel, low-relief inscription 'VIVA[T]' (may he live). 2.73 grams, 19.43 mm overall, 15.22 mm internal diameter (approximate size British I 1/2, USA 4 1/2, Europe 8.07, Japan 7)
UK private collection before 2000. Acquired on the UK art market. Property of a London gentleman. -
Roman Glass Bead Necklace String
1st-4th century A.D. and laterSold for (Inc. bp): £85
Composed of mainly dark blue oblate beads with a central rectangular-section bead, restrung. 14.5 grams, 46 cm
Ex property of a late Japanese collector, 1970-2000s. -
Roman Silver Snake-Headed Armilla Bracelet
1st-4th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £130
With narrow round-section shank, flattened leaf-shaped finials with transverse ribbing and punched serpent-head detailing. 6.57 grams, 49 mm
Private collection, Arundel, West Sussex, UK, 1980s-1990s.
The armilla was a Roman military decoration in the form of an arm-ring or bracelet, often with snake-head terminals. They were made in gold, silver or bronze, the latter normally awarded to the lower ranks as a visible mark of distinguished service.
