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LOT 0784
Roman Terracotta Bullae, Tesserae or Token Group
3RD CENTURY B.C.-1ST CENTURY A.D.
1/2 - 7/8 in. (34.4 grams total, 14-21 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' refers to a four-sided shape. 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 Ring with Gladitorial Lion
Circa 1st-4th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £91
The hoop expanding towards the shoulders, with an oval bezel with an incuse image of a lion. 4.20 grams, 23.11 mm overall, 20.35 x 15.45 mm internal diameter (approximate size British M, USA 6, Europe 12.46, Japan 12)
Acquired on the UK art market. Private collection, Suffolk, UK. -
Roman Brown Stone Cameo with Female Bust
2nd-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £33
Ellipsoid in plan with a low-relief female profile portrait bust with hair dressed in a chignon. 0.57 grams, 13 mm
Property of a European gentleman, acquired from the estate of a London collector (formed before 2000). -
Roman Gemstone Group
2nd-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £117
Including standing female with amphora, Mars with winged Victory, leaping lion, facing bust of Sol and other types; each supplied with a museum-quality impression. 5.9 grams total, 6-21 mm
From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s.
