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LOT 1051
Roman Terracotta Bullae, Tesserae or Token Group
3RD CENTURY B.C.-1ST CENTURY A.D.
1/2 - 3/4 in. (35 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 Cobalt Blue Glass Unguentarium
1st-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £910
Delicate cobalt-blue glass unguentarium comprising a piriform body with slight constriction at the base of the cylindrical neck, everted folded rim and a slightly concave base; traces of earthly deposits to the surface. 15 grams, 88 mm
Private collection, 1990s-early 2000s. -
Roman Bronze Votive Statue Leg
2nd-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £169
Modelled as the lower left leg with anatomical detailing, sprue to the foot. 435 grams, 12.9 cm
Acquired in the mid 1980s-1990s. Private collection, Switzerland, thence by descent. Private collection, since the late 1990s. -
Roman Gold Earring Pair with Pearls
2nd-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £1,105
Matched pair, each comprising a tubular shank with hook-and-eye closure, free-running dangle with pearl bead and granule cluster below. 6.06 grams total, 62-64 mm
with Gorny & Mosch, Munich, 14 December 2010, no.158. Private collection, Europe. Accompanied by a copy of the relevant Gorny & Mosch catalogue pages.
