'The Colchester' Roman Bronze Caduceus Sceptre Finial

A mixed group of ceramic bullae, tesserae or theatre tokens bearing low-relief motifs, mainly consisting of profile busts of deities. 34 grams total, 13-19 mm



From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s.

The 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' suggests by etymologically referring to a square or at least a four-sided shape and confirmed in several cases by material remains of the past. 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.

Globular body with rolled rim and trumpet-shaped neck, two applied handles and a pontil base. 127 grams, 14.4 cm



From a specialist collection of glass, acquired from dealerships during the 1990s.

Discoid with impressed menorah motif, integral loop. 1.07 grams, 22 mm



Private collection, acquired in the late 1980s-early 1990s; thence by descent.

Glass medallions were produced especially in Syria and decorated with imagery including Christian saints and monograms. The iconography of the Menorah was used by both Christian and Jewish communities, being for the Orthodox church a symbol of divine light, the seven gifts of the Holy Ghost and the church itself.