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LOT 1084
Roman Bronze Key Ring
1ST-4TH CENTURY A.D.
1 3/8 in. (4.31 grams, 35 mm).
Square-section hoop with spurs to the shoulders, articulated barrel-shank key with voided bit. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceFrom the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s.
LiteratureCf. a similar (but not identical) Roman key from North Lincolnshire in PAS no.NLM-291297.
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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LOT 1084
Roman Bronze Key Ring
Estimate £30 - 40€35 - 46 (for guidance only)$41 - 54 (for guidance only)
Opening Bid
£5 (EUR 6; USD 7) +BP*
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Roman Terracotta Coin Forger's Mould
Circa 3rd-4th century A.D.Estimate: £50 - 70 (+bp*)
Bids: 2 | Current Bid: £15
Discoid clay mould with an impressed design of a coin on each face, one side with a radiate profile bust. 4.26 grams, 28 mm
London gentleman's collection, 1970-1990s, by descent. -
Roman Stone and Glass Gem Collection
2nd-3rd century A.D. and laterEstimate: £120 - 170 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £5
Including Fortuna with wheel, profile bust and other types; some supplied with a museum-quality impression. 3.61 grams total, 8-15 mm
From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s. -
Roman Bronze Theatre Mask Mount
1st-2nd century A.D.Estimate: £1,500 - 2,000 (‡+bp*)
Opening Bid: £825
Comic theatre mask in the form of a bearded man with a furrowed forehead, bulging brows and flat nose; within the mouth opening of the mask, the actor’s mouth visible as if an actor were wearing the mask, likewise the actor’s eyes with drilled pupils seem to peer through the eye openings that are framed by bulges, hair brushed back from the forehead; on the right, a hinge eyelet, and small holes at the top and bottom probably for the air supply; possibly the lid of a lamp; accompanied by a custom-made display stand. 207 grams total, mask: 62 mm, 13.3 cm high including stand
Ex Prof. Hans Dahn (1919-2019), Lausanne, acquired July 1959 from Donati.
Despite the moralising of certain elements of society and the bad reputation they suffered, the actors and their dramatic spectacles remained hugely popular with ordinary Romans. Theatre was important in the life of commoners and had a powerful impact on moulding public opinion. This piece, likely a decorative element, reflects the popularity and prominent place of theatre in Roman culture.
