Roman Bronze Square-Shaped Bell

Comprising a large edge section with impressed olive tree, with details of branches, fruit and foliage. 87 grams, 17 cm



Acquired 1960s-1990s. From the late Alison Barker collection, a retired London barrister.

The representation of an olive tree on this sigillata is not casual. In the early Imperial period the export of the Adriatic olive oil, following the amber road, moved from Aquileia to the provinces of Roman Pannonia. During the 3rd century, the production of the Spanish olive oil reached the Northern Roman provinces. Olives were transported in particular amphorae and served with specific vessels, distinguishing the black olives (olivae nerae) from the white olives (olivae albae).

Penannular form with one end wound about the shank, centrepiece a denarius coin with portrait bust. 22 grams, 68 mm



Ex Lincolnshire, UK, collection, 1990s.

Plate brooch formed as a fish with broad, gently curved lozengiform body, small lateral fins, chevron tail, D-shaped head with large discoid eye; the body with five rows of crescent punchmarks denoting scales; hinge-plate and catch to the reverse. 4.98 grams, 38 mm

Fine condition.

Property of a gentleman from Vienna; from his private collection formed since 1970.

The brooch is of a type found in Britain, corresponding to Hull's type 223. The fish represented here is likely a salmon.