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LOT 0955
Roman Enamelled Bronze Dolphin Brooch
2ND CENTURY A.D.
1 5/8 in. (13.4 grams, 42 mm).
Bow brooch formed as a leaping dolphin with notched dorsal fin and splayed pectoral fins with enamel, the body with notched decoration, fanned tail with red enamel, recessed eyes and a catchplate beneath the nose. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceFrom the private coin collection of a West London, UK, gentleman, formed since the mid 1980s.
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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Roman Terracotta Bullae, Tesserae or Token Group
3rd century B.C.-1st century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £143
A mixed group of ceramic bullae, tesserae or theatre tokens bearing low-relief motifs, mainly consisting of profile busts of deities. 34.8 grams total, 15-24 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. -
Roman Green Glass Handled Jar
2nd-3rd century A.D.Estimate: £400 - 600 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £200
With a dimpled base, bulbous body with a carinated flange to the neck and a broad mouth, applied lateral handles. 74.4 grams, 95 mm wide
From an important London, UK, collection 1980-2020. -
Roman Gold Double Ring with Bead
1st-2nd century A.D.Estimate: £500 - 700 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £275
Comprising two broad sheet-gold hoops, each with reeded outer face, joined with applied granules below and a wire loop above, securing a facetted glass bead. 3.52 grams, 31 mm
Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.
