Roman Iron Ring with Figural Gemstone

A mixed group of ceramic bullae, tesserae or theatre tokens bearing low-relief motifs, mainly consisting of profile busts of deities. 41.2 grams total, 17-22 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 bulbous biconvex body, basal ring, tapering neck with stepped mouth and rounded rim, ribbed strap handle to the rear. 1.19 kg, 21.5 cm



From the private collection of Mr Brian Edwards, New Malden, Surrey, UK, formed from the late 1970s-early 1980s; thence by descent.

With a piriform body with a dimple base, a long tubular neck with an everted rim. 194 grams, 18.2 cm



From an important London, UK, collection 1980-2020.

The toilet bottle corresponds to the Isling Form 28a or Vessberg flask type A.III.a. The transparent greyish green glass suggests that the object belongs to the Hayes' fabric 2 of Cypriot blown glass.