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LOT 0639
Roman Lead Gaming Die
CIRCA 1ST-4TH CENTURY A.D.
1/2 in. (7.94 grams, 11 mm).
Cuboid dice with impressed markings unusually disposed 1:6, 4:5, 3:?. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceEx gentleman collector of antique and antiquity games from Berkshire, UK, having collected for over 20 years.
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): £195
A mixed group of ceramic bullae, tesserae or theatre tokens bearing low-relief motifs, mainly consisting of profile busts of deities. 37 grams total, 14-23 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 Iridescent Glass Candlestick Toilet Bottle
1st-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £208
Comprising a low bulbous body and a tubular neck with a rolled rim. 33.6 grams, 13.9 cm
Acquired in the 1990s from London dealerships and auction houses. From the Lonson collection. -
Roman Bronze Ring with Stepping Horse and Dioscourus
Circa 3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £72
Wide hoop expanding at the shoulders, oval bezel with a standing figure beside a stepping horse. 4.45 grams, 20.40 mm overall, 16.70 mm internal diameter (approximate size British K, USA 5 1/4, Europe 9.95, Japan 9)
From a UK collection formed in the 1980s. Property of an Essex, UK, gentleman.
