No. 102438130

No longer available
Ancient Roman Seal box
Bidding closed
2 weeks ago

Ancient Roman Seal box

Attention: due to customs regulations we can only ship inside the European Union. Please ensure you have a valid EU shipping address before placing a bid. Roman bronze seal box, originally used to seal important documents, sealed together with wax. The upper plate is decorated with a crescent moon which is filled with green glass paste/enamel. The reverse features a hinged construction with a central loop and fastening element, allowing the box to be secured over a cord or binding thread. The interior would have enclosed and protected the wax seal beneath, preventing tampering. Both sides are still intact! -> Seal boxes were used throughout the Roman world to safeguard the integrity of sealed correspondence and goods. By enclosing the wax seal, they ensured that any interference would be immediately visible. -> The perforations on the lid often held coloured enamel or glass inlays, adding both decorative appeal and visibility, while also possibly indicating ownership or status. Length: ± 33,2 mm Width: ± 22,9 mm Condition: Very fine and solid condition. Enamel in crescent moon fully present. Olive-green patina with spots of cuprite. Minor surface irregularities and wear to the detailing, consistent with age and use. Certificate of Authenticity: available upon request (pdf-format).

No. 102438130

No longer available
Ancient Roman Seal box

Ancient Roman Seal box

Attention: due to customs regulations we can only ship inside the European Union. Please ensure you have a valid EU shipping address before placing a bid.

Roman bronze seal box, originally used to seal important documents, sealed together with wax.

The upper plate is decorated with a crescent moon which is filled with green glass paste/enamel.

The reverse features a hinged construction with a central loop and fastening element, allowing the box to be secured over a cord or binding thread. The interior would have enclosed and protected the wax seal beneath, preventing tampering.
Both sides are still intact!

-> Seal boxes were used throughout the Roman world to safeguard the integrity of sealed correspondence and goods. By enclosing the wax seal, they ensured that any interference would be immediately visible.

-> The perforations on the lid often held coloured enamel or glass inlays, adding both decorative appeal and visibility, while also possibly indicating ownership or status.

Length: ± 33,2 mm
Width: ± 22,9 mm

Condition: Very fine and solid condition. Enamel in crescent moon fully present. Olive-green patina with spots of cuprite. Minor surface irregularities and wear to the detailing, consistent with age and use.

Certificate of Authenticity: available upon request (pdf-format).

Bidding closed
Peter Reynaers
Expert
Estimate  € 250 - € 330

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