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LOT 0618
Roman Terracotta Bullae, Tesserae or Token Group
3RD CENTURY B.C.-1ST CENTURY A.D.
5/8 - 3/4 in. (40 grams total, 16-21 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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LOT 0618
Roman Terracotta Bullae, Tesserae or Token Group
Sold for (Inc. bp): £66
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Roman Glass Pendant with Standing Warrior
2nd-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £85
Discoid with an integral loop, impressed motif of a standing figure with raised arm, and armour, two smaller objects on the field. 1.71 grams, 21.84 mm
From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s. -
Roman Bronze Ring
3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £72
Featuring a D-section hoop with wide, angled shoulders, a round bezel with a quiver(?) and an arrow. 6.34 grams, 27.81 mm overall, 14.31x18.22 mm internal diameter (approximate size British I 1/2, USA 4 1/2, Europe 8.07, Japan 7)
From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s. -
Roman Glass Cameo with Female Bust
1st century A.D.Estimate: £350 - 450 (‡+bp*)
Opening Bid: £175
Ellipsoid black glass plaque with profile female bust, hair dressed in a chignon. 1.82 grams, 18.58 mm
Acquired in the mid 1980s-1990s. Private collection, Switzerland, thence by descent. Private collection, since the late 1990s. Accompanied by a copy of an Art Loss Register certificate, no.S00011371.
