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LOT 1057
Roman Terracotta Bullae, Tesserae or Token Group
3RD CENTURY B.C.-1ST CENTURY A.D.
5/8 - 7/8 in. (43 grams total, 16-23 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 Animal Finial and Mount Group
3rd-4th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £85
Comprising: a finial formed as a slender bird; a stylised bull's head mount with a loop on the reverse; an openwork bird mount with remains of a loop on the reverse. 8.56 grams, 18-28.6 mm
From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s. -
Roman Terracotta Oil Lamp with Fire Altar
1st century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £187
Round body with volute nozzle, discus with a flaming altar flanked by two pillars, one with a flame. 49.8 grams, 79 mm
Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman. -
Roman Gemstone Collection
1st-2nd century A.D.Estimate: £350 - 450 (+bp*)
Current Winning Bid: £189
Mixed group including a standing female, a perching bird and others; each supplied with a museum-quality impression. 2.66 grams total, 7-16 mm
From the collection of a gentleman, acquired on the London art market in the 1990s.
Two of the gemstones in this collection show cockerels. The motif of fighting or individual cockerels was very popular in the classical world, and individual cockerels (the animal often associated with gods, such as Mercury or Sol/Helios) were also often depicted in a standing position. Another gemstone appears to represent a nude figure of Dionysus/Bacchus draped in a long cloak, and another shows Helios with a radiate crown.
