Ancient Roman, Empire Bronze Applique with a curvilinear swastika motif (tetrasquelion) – 2nd century AD. - 16 mm (No reserve price)
05
days
22
hours
16
minutes
17
seconds
Starting bid
€ 1
No reserve price
Expert
Selected by Ruth Garrido Vila
Directed the Ifergan Collection Museum, specialising in Phoenician and Mediterranean archaeology.
Estimate € 200 - € 250
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Description from the seller
Roman bronze wall appliqué with a curvilinear swastika motif (tetrasquelion) – 2nd century A.D.
Culture: Roman.
Typological dating: Late Roman Empire, 2nd century A.D.
Material: Cast bronze.
Dimensions: 16 × 16 × 13 mm.
Description for auction:
An interesting and singular decorative bronze appliqué, featuring an appealing cruciform composition of four curved arms, belonging to the decorative tradition of the late Roman world.
The piece presents an elaborate design of rotational movement, known as tetrasquelion or curvilinear swastika, formed by four rounded-section arms whose ends curve into hooks.
This ancient geometric motif, widely disseminated across diverse ancient cultures, was associated with concepts of movement, continuity and solar symbolism, and was incorporated into numerous Roman ornamental objects.
Particularly noteworthy is its three-dimensional construction by casting, as well as the presence of a solid rear eyelet, integrated into the body of the piece, which allowed its fixation or suspension on elements of harness and equipment.
Its small size, combined with the complexity of its curved forms, makes it an attractive showcase of Roman-period decorative metalwork.
The surface preserves an intense ancient patina in dark greens, grays and browns, accompanied by mineral deposits and ochre concretions that accentuate its archaeological character.
Condition: Generally well preserved, with all four decorative arms complete, rear eyelet preserved, and an attractive superficial patina.
Roman bronze wall appliqué with a curvilinear swastika motif (tetrasquelion) – 2nd century A.D.
Culture: Roman.
Typological dating: Late Roman Empire, 2nd century A.D.
Material: Cast bronze.
Dimensions: 16 × 16 × 13 mm.
Description for auction:
An interesting and singular decorative bronze appliqué, featuring an appealing cruciform composition of four curved arms, belonging to the decorative tradition of the late Roman world.
The piece presents an elaborate design of rotational movement, known as tetrasquelion or curvilinear swastika, formed by four rounded-section arms whose ends curve into hooks.
This ancient geometric motif, widely disseminated across diverse ancient cultures, was associated with concepts of movement, continuity and solar symbolism, and was incorporated into numerous Roman ornamental objects.
Particularly noteworthy is its three-dimensional construction by casting, as well as the presence of a solid rear eyelet, integrated into the body of the piece, which allowed its fixation or suspension on elements of harness and equipment.
Its small size, combined with the complexity of its curved forms, makes it an attractive showcase of Roman-period decorative metalwork.
The surface preserves an intense ancient patina in dark greens, grays and browns, accompanied by mineral deposits and ochre concretions that accentuate its archaeological character.
Condition: Generally well preserved, with all four decorative arms complete, rear eyelet preserved, and an attractive superficial patina.
Details
Culture
Ancient Roman, Empire
Century/timeframe
S.II
Name of object
Applique with a curvilinear swastika motif (tetrasquelion) – 2nd century AD.
Acquired from
Private collection
Year acquired
1970
Material
Bronze
Country acquired from
Spain
Condition
Good
Previous owner acquired from
Gallery / Antique dealer
Height
16 mm
Previous owner - year acquired
1960
Width
16 mm
Previous owner - country acquired from
Spain
Depth
13 mm
I verify that I have obtained this object legally and that I am allowed to sell it
Yes
Authenticity
Original/official
Sold by
Disclaimer
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
