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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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Large Roman Lead Gaming Dice
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Roman Bronze Statuette of Mercury
2nd-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £169
Modelled standing nude with a mantle over his shoulders, winged petasos on his head; mounted on a custom-made stand. 291 grams, 12.2 cm including stand
From 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.
The many statuettes of Mercury found in France and Italy offer many variations: Mercury is sometimes entirely naked, recalling the models of the 4th century B.C., but much more often he wears a paenula or a chlamys rolled up on his left arm. His head can be uncovered, adorned with two wings or covered by the petasos.
