Loading, please wait...
LOT 0996
Romano-British Bronze Priapus Statuette
2ND-3RD CENTURY A.D.
1 1/2 in. (14.1 grams, 40 mm).
Modelled in the round, standing, wearing a paenula, his hands holding up the hem to support a pile of fruits on his erect penis.
ProvenanceFound Lincolnshire, UK.
LiteratureCf. Rolland, H., Bronzes Antiques de Haute Provence, Paris, 1965, item 136, for type.
FootnotesThis is one of the most characteristic representations of Priapus: standing, with long, smooth hair. With his hands, he raises his tunic, revealing his phallus, a symbol of fertility and good luck, and carries the first fruits of the earth on the hem of his tunic.
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:
TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.
-
Roman Terracotta Unguentarium Bottle
1st-4th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £78
Comprising a bulbous body and tall tubular neck with everted rim. 180 grams, 13.3 cm
From the collection of Mr W.A. Stewart, Director of School of Arts and Crafts, Cairo, 1919-1929. Acquired Christie's, London, Antiquities, Works of Art and Important Renaissance Bronzes, Plaquettes and Limoges Enamels, 8 July 1981, no.126 (part). From a private Wiltshire, UK, collection. Accompanied by a copy of the relevant Christie's catalogue page. -
Roman Bronze Ring with Seated Fortuna Gemstone
2nd-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £33
D-section hoop and ellipsoid bezel with inset gemstone, intaglio motif of a seated goddess holding a sword blade-uppermost. 2.03 grams, 21.6 mm overall, 15.7 mm internal diameter (approximate size British J 1/2, USA 5, Europe 9.32, Japan 9)
with Archaeologia, Switzerland, before 1983. Ex private North American collection. London private collection, 2016. -
Roman Gemstone Collection
2nd-3rd century A.D.Estimate: £500 - 700 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £250
Including profile bust, standing figure and other types; each supplied with a museum-quality impression. 3.89 grams total, 9-14 mm
From the collection of a gentleman, acquired on the London art market in the 1990s.