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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
Estimate £100 - 140€120 - 160 (for guidance only)$140 - 190 (for guidance only)
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Roman Bronze Decorated Bracelet
1st-4th century A.D.Estimate: £40 - 60 (+bp*)
Bids: 1 | Current Bid: £5
Flat in section with tapering rounded opposed ends; scalloped median band on a pounced field with median punched-pellet centreline. 19.97 grams, 55 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(s) with reference no.A88. -
Roman Bronze Crossbow Brooch
4th century A.D.Estimate: £50 - 70 (+bp*)
Bids: 1 | Current Bid: £5
With three onion-shaped knops to the crossbar, deep bow, trapezoidal foot with notched edges and longitudinal line; integral catch; hinged pin to reverse. 39 grams, 69 mm
From the private coin collection of a West London, UK, gentleman, formed since the mid 1980s. -
Roman Ribbed Glass Vessel
3rd century A.D.Estimate: £400 - 600 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £200
The body with fine ribs and a dimpled base, a carinated shoulder and a funicular neck with a raised collar below the rim. 98.3 grams, 13.1 cm
From an important London, UK, collection 1980-2020.
The vessel likely originates from a Syrian or Palestinian workshop, characterised by a neck shape featuring a collar and a yellow glass tint. The vessel's form establishes an upper chronological limit of the mid-3rd century AD, while the relatively high quality of the glass precludes dating it any later than the end of that century.
