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LOT 0774
Very Large Roman Terracotta Flask
CIRCA 1ST CENTURY A.D.
10 1/4 in. (606 grams, 26 cm).
Piriform in profile with broad flared neck and everted rim at the mouth. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceFrom 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.A25.
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AUCTIONS:
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Roman Garnet Gemstone with Profile Bust
2nd-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £72
With intaglio profile bust wearing a pleated cloak on the shoulder; supplied with a museum-quality impression. 0.48 grams, 10.10 mm
From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s. -
Roman Tall Glass Flask
Circa 1st-4th century A.D.Estimate: £100 - 140 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £56
Comprising a squat conical body with a dimple at the base, long tubular neck with wide rim. 27 grams, 15 cm
From a London, UK, collection of glass, 1970-2000s. -
Roman Terracotta Bullae, Tesserae or Token Group
3rd century B.C.-1st century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £104
A mixed group of ceramic bullae, tesserae or theatre tokens bearing low-relief motifs, mainly consisting of profile busts of deities. 31 grams total, 14-21 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.