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LOT 0639
Roman Terracotta Bullae, Tesserae or Token Group
3RD CENTURY B.C.-1ST CENTURY A.D.
1/2 - 3/4 in. (32 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 Lion's Head Fragment
1st-4th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £546
Modelled in the round with open jaws and lolling tongue, furrowed eyebrows and large lentoid eyes, mane detailing framing the face. 59.4 grams, 45.3 mm
From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s. -
Roman Terracotta Oil Lamp with Clasped Hands Holding a Caduceus
Circa 2nd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £364
Circular body with short nozzle and a loop handle, discus with clasped hands before a caduceus. 57.5 grams, 92 mm
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.A40. -
Late Roman Red Ware Oil Lamp with Fish
Circa 5th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £260
Circular body with a triangular handle at the rear, low-relief fish motif on the discus flanked by two filler holes, band of rosettes on the shoulder. 92 grams, 11.3 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.A23.
