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LOT 0663
Roman Terracotta Bullae, Tesserae or Token Group
3RD CENTURY B.C.-1ST CENTURY A.D.
1/2 - 3/4 in. (34 grams total, 13-19 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 0663
Roman Terracotta Bullae, Tesserae or Token Group
Sold for (Inc. bp): £7
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Roman Bronze Figure of Hercules Holding Club and Skyphos
2nd-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £1,235
Depicted nude in a contrapposto stance with the weight on his left leg, holding a club in the crook of his left hand with a lion-skin draped over the arm, and a cup in his right hand. 115 grams, 86 mm
Acquired in the 1980s. Private collection, Switzerland, thence by descent. Private collection, since the late 1990s. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.12615-234681.
This well-proportioned bronze statuette, perhaps of Gallo-Roman origin, was likely made for a private lararium, the domestic shrine found in many Roman homes. Although provincial in style, it is carefully modelled and has a strong presence. Unlike many similar figures, Hercules is shown here without a beard, and the upper part of the head was probably once covered by a laurel crown. Known to the Greeks as Herakles, Hercules was one of the most admired heroic figures in the Roman world, celebrated for his strength, endurance, and ability to overcome immense challenges. His famous Twelve Labours made him a lasting symbol of perseverance and triumph, and small bronze figures such as this would have brought not only mythological meaning into the home, but also a sense of protection, resilience, and personal devotion. -
Roman Face Intaglio in Bronze Ring
Circa 2nd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £85
D-section hoop with expanding shoulders, set with an agate intaglio carved as a face in three-quarter view. 4.26 grams, 23.50 mm overall, 14.08 x 19.53 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 Black Glass and Other Bead Necklace String
1st-4th century A.D. and laterSold for (Inc. bp): £26
Composed mainly of oblate beads with a conical pendant at the centre, restrung. 3.6 grams, 41 cm
Ex London, UK, collection, 1990s.
