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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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Roman Bronze Ring with Nicolo Mercury Gemstone
Circa 3rd-4th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £520
Carinated hoop with stepped shoulders, ellipsoid cell with inset nicolo intaglio of Mercury standing. 8.18 grams, 25.28 mm overall, 17.53 x 14.71 mm internal diameter (approximate size British J, USA 4 3/4, Europe 8.69, Japan 8)
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.A104. -
Roman Ribbed Glass Bottle
4th-5th century A.D.Estimate: £400 - 600 (‡+bp*)
Opening Bid: £200
With globular body, dimple foot, slight vertical ribbing to body, broad funicular mouth with folded rim. 174 grams, 19 cm
Acquired in the late 1980s. Private collection, thence by descent. Private collection, since the late 1990s.
Similar vessels (bottles) were found in 4th-5th century tombs at Beit Ras, Jordan, and from Samaria-Sebaste, Israel. The most recognisable characteristic of these bottles was the faint ribs on the body. The type survived until the Arab conquest in the 7th century A.D. -
Roman Terracotta Oil Lamp Collection
1st century B.C.-6th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £416
Mixed group of eight oil lamps, including one with a triple nozzle and dogs chasing hares on the shoulder, a double-spouted oil lamp with Abundantia holding a cornucopia, one with a bird in profile holding a branch in its beak, and others. 743 grams total, 5.5-14.8 cm
From an important collection of lamps, Germany, 1970s.
