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LOT 0867
Roman Terracotta Bullae, Tesserae or Token Group
3RD CENTURY B.C.-1ST CENTURY A.D.
1/2 - 3/4 in. (30.9 grams total, 12-20 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' 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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LOT 0867
Roman Terracotta Bullae, Tesserae or Token Group
Sold for (Inc. bp): £182
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Roman Lead Gaming Die
Circa 1st-4th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £65
Cuboid dice with impressed markings unusually disposed 1:6, 2:5, 3:5. 12.1 grams, 11 mm
Ex gentleman collector of antique and antiquity games from Berkshire, UK, having collected for over 20 years. -
Roman Glass Jug with Trails
4th-5th century A.D.Estimate: £350 - 450 (‡+bp*)
Opening Bid: £190
A small pale yellow collared globular jug with short neck, angular ribbon handle with two narrow prominent ribs, folded upper attachment to the cylindrical neck, several horizontal lines on the globular body, trefoil mouth. 32 grams, 74 mm
with H.A.C., Basel, prior 1999.
These globular jugs were typical of the Eastern Mediterranean in the late Roman period. The body was often decorated with ornamental threads. The jugs were often used in a manner similar to pilgrim flasks, to collect oil and water from early Christian sanctuaries. -
Roman Bronze Phallic Quillon
1st-4th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £117
Rectangular plate with a large oval socket, one end formed as an erect phallus, and the other as a stylised fist with ribbed cuff. 15.65 grams, 58 mm
Ex German collection, 1990s.
