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)
-
Roman Bronze Panther Collection
1st-4th century A.D.Estimate: £600 - 800 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £333
Comprising: a panther figure modelled sitting, semi-naturalistic detailing to the head and face, tail curled to one side of the body; fragmentary remains of the forequarters of a panther depicted in relief with stylised detailing; stylised panther figure modelled attacking, slightly curved profile, possibly a handle attachment. 97 grams total, 36-70 mm
‘The Ancient Menagerie Collection’ formerly the property of a Cambridgeshire lady, collected since the 1990s and acquired from auctions and dealers throughout Europe and the USA, now ex London collection. -
Late Roman Bucchero Jug
Circa 4th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £702
The ribbed body with gusseted strap handle and trefoil mouth. 428 grams, 15.5 cm high
with a London, UK gallery 1971-early 2000s. -
Roman Silver-Gilt Military Strap End
Circa late 3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £624
Comprising scalloped outer faces, shallow dashed borders framing scrolling vines with gilt leaves to one face and horizontal bar of conjoined ellipses with pelta finial and pecked borders to the other, also with gilt elements. 39.8 grams total, 64-65 mm
Ex German art market in the late 1990s.