Loading, please wait...
Details
LOT 0078
Roman Lead Ingot with Inscription
1ST CENTURY AD
20 1/2" (40 kg total, 52cm with stand).
A rectangular lead ingot with chamfered sides, indented panel to the upper face with reserved inscription 'METALLO M[.]SSALINI' (from the mine of Messallinus); mounted on a custom-made stand.
Provenance
Ex North London gentleman; formerly in a important private Dorset collection, formed 1970.
Published
Hanel, N. et al. Metallum Messallini - A New Roman Lead Ingot from the Danube Provinces, in Metalla 2018.
Footnotes
The mould mark metallo Messallini is unusual on Roman-period ingots. It appears to refer to the Illyrian lead mines of Marcus Valerius Messalla Messallinus, who was consul in 3 BC and governor of the province of Illyricum from 6 AD. The mines were possibly a gift from Emperor Augustus (who owned mines in that region) to Messallinus for his service.
CONDITIONVETTING:
TimeLine 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:
TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.
RELATED LOTS
1st-3rd century AD and later
Lot No. 0197 Opening bid: £720
1st-2nd century AD
Lot No. 1841
Sold for (Inc. premium): £19
1st century AD
Lot No. 1336
Sold for (Inc. premium): £575
