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LOT 0823
Roman Terracotta Bullae, Tesserae or Token Group
3RD CENTURY B.C.-1ST CENTURY A.D.
1/2 - 3/4 in. (31 grams total, 14-20 mm).
A mixed group of ceramic bullae, tesserae or theatre tokens bearing low-relief motifs, mainly consisting of profile busts of deities. [20, No Reserve]
ProvenanceFrom the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s.
FootnotesThe 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.
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 Bronze Horse Head Terminal
1st-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £416
Modelled as a caparisoned horse-head emerging from a four-petalled flower. 60.1 grams, 57 mm
From the collection of a gentleman, acquired on the London art market in the 1990s.
This is a horse protome designed to be a mount for a vessel or small furniture, a work of delicate Roman craftsmanship, a replica of a widespread Hellenistic model. Similar bronzes can be found at the Musée des Antiquités Nationales of Paris, at the Metropolitan Museum, and at the Mariemont Museum. -
Large Roman Cut-Glass Beaker
4th-5th century A.D.Estimate: £1,800 - 2,400 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £900
With a thick conical body and a pontil base, five horizontal grooves cut around the outer face of the body; traces of iridescence. 295 grams, 19 cm
Dr Jutaro Kawabe, Nagoya, Japan, his collection formed in the 1960s-1970s. with Hoshigaoka Gallery until the late 1990s. Private collection, London, UK. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.13277-254062.
Conical vessels of this form could be used as either a lamp or a beaker; notably during the late imperial period in the eastern provinces of the Roman Empire and in the early Migration period. Deep cuts on this piece suggest it was used with suspension chains or ropes, making it highly likely that this example was used as a lamp. -
Roman Iridescent Glass Bead
1st-4th century A.D. or laterSold for (Inc. bp): £13
Plano-convex type with transverse piercing. 2.55 grams, 15 mm
From the London collection of the late Mr S.M., 1969-1999.
