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LOT 0613
Roman Lead Votive Mirror Frame
2ND-4TH CENTURY A.D.
2 1/4 in. (30 grams, 58 mm).
Discoid in plan, the reverse with a floral motif, the obverse with concentric rings, pellets and scrolls. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceFrom the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s.
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): £117
A mixed group of ceramic bullae, tesserae or theatre tokens bearing low-relief motifs, mainly consisting of profile busts of deities. 32 grams total, 15-20 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' suggests by etymologically referring to a square or at least a four-sided shape and confirmed in several cases by material remains of the past. 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 Bronze Erotic Plaque
Circa 3rd century A.D.Estimate: £200 - 300 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £100
Rectangular plaque with pierced trapezoidal lug to the upper edge; central panel with reserved orgiastic scene. 26.7 grams, 51 mm
From the collection of a gentleman, acquired on the London art market in the 1990s. -
Parthian Glass Two-Handled Vessel
Circa 1st-2nd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £260
Pale blue bulbous vessel with trumpet-shaped neck, two small curving handles. 221 grams, 10.4 cm wide
Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.
