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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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Roman Banded Agate Gemstone with Jupiter Seated
2nd-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £169
With intaglio Jupiter sitting on his throne with a spear in one hand and an eagle at his feet; supplied with a museum-quality impression. 1.41 grams, 15.2 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. -
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Roman White Gemstone with Alexander the Great and Philosopher Diogenes of Sinope
2nd-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £169
Frieze depicting a seated Alexander the Great holding a ring or collar towards a philosopher emerging from a cauldron; supplied with a museum-quality impression. 1.24 grams, 16.27 mm
From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s.
Diogenes of Sinope (c. 412-323 BCE) was an ancient Greek philosopher and one of the founders of Cynicism. He became famous for rejecting wealth, comfort, and social rules, choosing instead to live with very few possessions. He is often said to have lived in a large ceramic jar in Athens, sometimes described as a barrel or tub. Known for his sharp wit and simple way of life, he is also remembered for telling Alexander the Great to step out of his sunlight.
