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LOT 0914
Roman Terracotta Bullae, Tesserae or Token Group
3RD CENTURY B.C.-1ST CENTURY A.D.
1/2 - 1 in. (29 grams total, 14-25 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 Red Ware Decorated Dish
Circa 3rd-4th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £208
Shallow body with steep walls and thickened rim, circumferential groove beneath the rim and a hatched band at the centre. 210 grams, 16.2 cm
From the private collection of Mr Brian Edwards, New Malden, Surrey, UK, formed from the late 1970s-early 1980s; thence by descent. Accompanied by the original collector's data sheet with reference no.A28. -
Roman Limestone Stele with Nude Putti
2nd-3rd century A.D. and laterSold for (Inc. bp): £22,100
Rectangular in plan with recessed panels to the lower edge, central bust of the deceased boy in a tondo supported by two nude horizontal putti with their legs extended towards a short column; deep undercuts to the columns and recess; later inscription in seriffed capitals 'DM / Q LOLLIVS / LOLLIANVS / VIXIT ANNIS VI / MENSES.V. DIES .XVIII.' 40.1 kg, 38 x 61.5 cm
From the private Netherlands collection of Mr Edward P. Van Dijk (1942-2024); his collection formed since the 1970s. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.13243-251959.
The inscription reports the usual dedication to the deceased, in this case a young boy six years of age: 'To the manes (spirits of the dead), Q(uintus) Lollius Lollianus, he lived 6 years, 5 months and 18 days'. -
Roman Bone Gaming Dice Pair
1st-4th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £195
Each a cuboid with ring-and-dot markings disposed 1:6, 2:5, 4:3. 3.8 grams total, 10 mm each
Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.
