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LOT 0144
'The Colchester' Roman Bronze Caduceus Sceptre Finial
1ST-4TH CENTURY A.D.
4 1/8 in. (77 grams, 10.7 cm).
Monofacial openwork finial formed as a serpent entwined and knotted above a pair of spread wings; from a large statue of Mercury (Hermes).
ProvenanceFound in Colchester in the 1960s.
From a late gentleman archaeologist’s collection, thence by family descent.
Cf. similar fragment in the collection of the Louvre, Paris, under accession no. INV 211; Br 553.
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 Terracotta Ribbed Drinking Cup
Circa 1st-2nd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £234
Comprising a tall body with a ribbed upper part and a narrow flaring foot. 206 grams, 11.2 cm
From the private collection of Mr Brian Edwards, New Malden, Surrey, UK, formed from the late 1970s-early 1980s; thence by descent. Accompanied by the original collector's data sheet with reference no.A115. -
Roman Iridescent Glass Double Unguentarium
2nd-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £468
With rolled rim to each tapering tube, applied trail detailing to each upper body, lateral angled handles and large applied loop handle above; iridescent surface. 77 grams, 17.5 cm
Private collection, 1990s-early 2000s. -
Roman Silver Military 'Use This with Good Fortune' Belt Mount Group
1st-2nd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £1,300
Group of belt fitting comprising: kidney-shaped buckle with tongue and square plate with studs; 'amphora-type' strap end with pierced and split upper end; silver letter-shaped plaques each with attachment studs to reverse: 'E' x 3, 'F', 'I', 'L', 'R', 'V', 'X' with suspension loop at the lower ends of the pars; the group may be assembled to read 'U[t]ere Felix' (use [this] with good fortune'. 63 grams total, 24-46 mm
Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.
One letter 'E' is bronze, the 'T' is absent.
