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LOT 0977
Roman Terracotta Bullae, Tesserae or Token Group
3RD CENTURY B.C.-1ST CENTURY A.D.
5/8 - 1 in. (34.8 grams total, 15-24 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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Comprising three gladius pendants, each with a domed pommel and pierced through the blade. 15.58 grams total, 26-35 mm
Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman. -
Roman to Medieval Bronze Ring Group
1st-16th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £169
Comprising: a large ring with a lentoid bezel bearing four ring-and-dot motifs; a slender ring with a rectangular bezel with five ring-and-dot motifs; a ring with a rectangular bezel with traces of niello; a ring with angled shoulders and a circular bezel with a Greek inscription; a slender ring with a circular ring set with a round cabochon; a flat-section ring with grooved circumferential lines; a ring with angled shoulders; a ring with keeled hoop and a lentoid bezel; a ring with keeled hoop and lentoid bezel with linear motifs. 30.3 grams total, 15-25 mm
From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s. -
Roman Carnelian Gemstone with Fortuna
2nd-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £78
Biconvex type with incuse design of Fortuna standing with a cornucopia; supplied with a museum-quality impression. 0.59 grams, 13 mm
From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s.
