Loading, please wait...
LOT 0693
Roman Bronze Looped Figural Pendant with Phallus
CIRCA 1ST CENTURY A.D.
3 1/4 in. (53 grams, 83 mm).
Composed of three concentric circles surmounted by a bearded figure to which is attached a suspension ring, the body of the figure engraved and ending with phallic attributes. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceAcquired before 2000.
From the collection of a European gentleman living in the UK.
Cf. Fernández González, J.J., ‘Around Eras del Bosque (Palencia) and the pieces of harness from the Roman Necropolis’ in Oppidum, Cuadernos de investigaciόn, no.17, Segovia, 2021, pp.61-76, fig.7, for similar harness pendant.
FootnotesRoman military harness included pendants of various typology, ranging from lunules to other decorative elements, often phallic, with the possible intention of protecting the animal. This particular pendant could be connected to the bearded image of the god Priapus.
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:
TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.
-
Roman Terracotta Wine Flagon
1st-2nd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £176
With globular body, thick basal ring, tall columnar neck with biconical collar, single strap handle to the rear. 380 grams, 14.7 cm high
Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of Surrey, UK, gentleman. -
Romano-British Enamelled Bronze Lid of a Pyxis
2nd-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £442
Hexagonal in plan with fastening holes, a band of cobalt blue enamelled spirals around the central aperture, interspersed with floral motifs, all enclosed within a scalloped border. 43.9 grams, 64 mm
Acquired 1980s-1990s. Private collection of H. N., Milton Keynes, Berkshire, UK.
Scholars have been able to establish the extent to which the manufacture of glass for enamel production was standardised through the Roman Empire during the 1st to 4th centuries. Enamels were probably fused from primary raw materials in specific production centres, one of which has been located in the Gallo-Roman villa of Anthee, France. The decoration with its undulating tendril and pellets in contrasting enamel is influenced by La Tène design of the 1st century B.C.-1st century A.D. -
Roman Ribbed Glass Vessel
3rd-4th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £195
With globular body, vertical ribbing, broad funicular mouth with rounded rim. 33 grams, 62 mm
Acquired 1980-2015. Ex Abelita family collection.