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LOT 0702
Roman Terracotta Frieze Fragment with Face
1ST-2ND CENTURY A.D.
7 3/4 in. (1 kg, 19.5 cm).
Comprising a circular medallion from an architectural frieze, representing a mask crowned by vegetable curls and volutes, the edges marked with a double line. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceAcquired from Millon Arts D'Orient.
Property of a Ruislip, UK, gentleman, by inheritance.
The medallion partially corresponds to some faces visible on the clay antefixes on the temple of Isis in Pompeii. The antefix was a roof covering element placed on the end of roof beams or as an occlusion of the terminal channels of the tiles in Greek, Etruscan and Roman buildings.
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 Statue Right Hand
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Modelled in the round in a pointing gesture, with semi-naturalistic anatomical and nail detailing; hollow-formed with a piercing through the palm; tip of index finger lost in antiquity. 169 grams, 73 mm
Acquired on the UK art market, 1982-1989. -
Roman Bronze Sitting Dog Statuette
1st-4th century A.D.Estimate: £400 - 600 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £222
Modelled in the round with naturalistic detailing including collar, seated holding the right paw upwards; on a round base with loop to the rear, possibly a balsamarium or other high-status vessel lid. 37.8 grams, 40 mm
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Roman Burnt Carnelian Gemstone with Mars and Minerva
1st-2nd century A.D.Estimate: £800 - 1,000 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £444
The oval intaglio with Mars Ultor and Minerva facing each other; Mars to the left with a spear in raised left hand, armed with helmet, armour and sword, his right hand resting on the shield beside him; Minerva to the right, wearing a helmet, shield and aegis. 0.87 grams, 14 mm
Acquired in the late 1980s-early 1990s. Important North West London collection.
Mars Ultor and Minerva were both linked with Roman war imagery. Mars represented military power, the strength of the army and violence in battle, Minerva strategy, tactics and intelligence in war. All these qualities were complementary and necessary to win the war. The gemstone was probably a gift for a soldier.
