Roman Coral-Coloured Glass and Other Bead Necklace String

A mixed group of ceramic bullae, tesserae or theatre tokens bearing low-relief motifs of profile busts, three with Hebrew text to the reverse. 3.97 grams total, 12-17 mm



From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s.

The term 'tessera' was used in Roman times to convey the Greek term σύμβολον (token). Small tiles are known as tokens, often shaped like coins, made of metal (copper, lead, iron), clay, bone, wood, or glass, stamped as well as engraved. The tokens, however, are not exclusively coin-shaped, as the Latin term 'tessera' refers to a four-sided shape. Tokens and tesserae seem to have been used both in Athens and Rome for the distribution of goods. According to written sources, the term ‘token’ is identified with credentials of the official authorities. They have also been interpreted as tokens of identity, as entrance tickets to theatre performances, tribunals or assemblies of citizens, archival material of seal engraving, as pawns in games, Charon’s obols and even as amulets.

With globular body, dimple foot, slight vertical ribbing to body, broad funicular mouth with folded rim. 174 grams, 19 cm



Acquired in the late 1980s. Private collection, thence by descent. Private collection, since the late 1990s.

Similar vessels (bottles) were found in 4th-5th century tombs at Beit Ras, Jordan, and from Samaria-Sebaste, Israel. The most recognisable characteristic of these bottles was the faint ribs on the body. The type survived until the Arab conquest in the 7th century A.D.

Composed mainly of small oblate beads interspersed with larger beads, the central feature composed of five larger beads; restrung. 10.2 grams, 31 cm



Acquired in the 1990s. Ex London, UK, collection.