Loading, please wait...
LOT 0089
Roman Silver Crossbow Brooch with Dedicatory Inscription
4TH CENTURY A.D.
2 3/8 in. (19.5 grams, 62 mm).
Featuring rounded knops to the head, the bow with a dedicatory inscription in Latin letters 'VTER FELIX IURE VICTO'.
ProvenanceAcquire in the 1990s.
Ex Cambridgeshire, UK, collection.
Cf. Shelton, K.J., The Esquiline Treasure, London, 1981, fig.50, for a very similar brooch.
FootnotesThe dedicatory inscription 'VTERE FELIX', 'use it with good luck' or 'with happiness' is often found on Roman military artefacts, like belt fittings, brooches, and armlets; but it is rarely accompanied by 'IURE VICTO' inscription ([being the] rightful winner). The inscription is typical of the late Roman military world, but it can also refer to people using the brooch in civil duties, these fibulae being ordinarily gifted to the militia armata and non armata.
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:
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.
LOT 0089
Roman Silver Crossbow Brooch with Dedicatory Inscription
Estimate £500 - 700€580 - 810 (for guidance only)$680 - 950 (for guidance only)
-
Late Roman Iron Branding Signaculum
Circa 3rd-6th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £13
Displaying a monogram composed of Latin letters A and R; tapering round-section socket. 233 grams, 20.2 cm
Acquired 1990s-early 2000s. East Anglian private collection.
The signacula used for branding were distinguished primarily by the presence of a relatively long metal arm, which could reach a length of 50 cm. This arm could sometimes be hollow to allow the insertion of a wooden handle. The presence of the long arm constitutes the main indication for the use of these signacula in the context of branding. Its length allowed the user to keep a safe distance from the source of heat. -
Roman Bronze Sleeping Dog Statuette
3rd-4th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £130
Modelled in the round at rest with its head on its front paws and wearing a collar, stylised coat and facial detailing; hollow-formed. 18.5 grams, 46 mm
Found Lincolnshire, 1981. -
Roman Bronze Dog Brooch
2nd-3rd century A.D.Estimate: £150 - 200 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £75
The body characterised by a series of horizontal grooves, raised pins to the front and back, the ones on the back probably for the attachment of the hinged pin. 2.5 grams, 34 mm
Acquire in the 1990s. Ex Cambridgeshire, UK, collection.
This unusual fibula was probably a provincial production. The dog was connected to the Celtic divinities and also with Silvanus, who was associated with healing, hunting, and dogs.
