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LOT 0727
Roman Terracotta Bullae, Tesserae or Token Group
3RD CENTURY B.C.-1ST CENTURY A.D.
5/8 - 3/4 in. (37.4 grams total, 17-20 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 Bone Gaming Die
Circa 1st-4th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £104
Polygonal die with ring-and-dot markings arranged 1:6, 2:5, 3:4. 2.9 grams, 13 mm
Ex Cambridgeshire, UK, collection, 1990s. -
Roman Gold Double Ring with Bead
1st-2nd century A.D.Estimate: £500 - 700 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £275
Comprising two broad sheet-gold hoops, each with reeded outer face, joined with applied granules below and a wire loop above, securing a facetted glass bead. 3.52 grams, 31 mm
Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman. -
Roman Bronze Horse Plate Brooch
2nd-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £143
Formed as a caparisoned horse with curved neck and legs, punched detailing on the saddle and neck halter, and three pierced lugs on the reverse. 12.7 grams, 42 mm
From the private coin collection of a West London, UK, gentleman, formed since the mid 1980s.
