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LOT 1023
Roman Terracotta Bullae, Tesserae or Token Group
3RD CENTURY B.C.-1ST CENTURY A.D.
1/2 - 7/8 in. (33.9 grams total, 12-21 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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LOT 1023
Roman Terracotta Bullae, Tesserae or Token Group
Sold for (Inc. bp): £91
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Roman Wolf's Head Finial
1st-4th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £117
Modelled in the round with a slender snout and large incised eyes, ears pulled back along the neck, and fur detailing throughout. 16.3 grams, 29 mm
Ex German collection, 1990s. -
Roman Enamelled Bronze Seal Box Collection
1st-2nd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £111
Including drum-shaped, lozengiform and other types. 37.4 grams total, 22-33 mm
From the private collection of Mr Brian Edwards, New Malden, Surrey, UK, formed from the late 1970s-early 1980s; thence by descent. -
Large Roman Green Mosaic Glass Fragment
Late 1st century B.C.-early 1st century A.D.Estimate: £2,000 - 3,000 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £1,000
Green glass with white swirls and petals, accompanied by a custom-made display stand. 208 grams, 16 cm (465 gram total including stand)
Dr Jutaro Kawabe, Nagoya, Japan, assembled during the 1960s-1980s. with Hoshigaoka Gallery until the late 1990s. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.13093-248078.
The decoration is well documented in the Eastern Roman Empire, especially the Syro-Palestinian coast. The most frequently occurring colour in these glass mosaics is opaque red, but green and blue tints are not uncommon.
