Ancient Greek, Hellenistic Lead Ancient Greek Lead Commercial Weight with Engraved Monogram
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€ 1
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Selected by Peter Reynaers
Has nearly 30 years’ experience and moderated multiple online art research groups.
Estimate € 300 - € 380
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Ancient Greek lead commercial weight of about 16 g, square 16.1 × 15.0 × 6.8 mm with an engraved monogram, dating to the Hellenistic period (circa 3rd–1st century BC), in excellent condition.
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Description from the seller
Ancient Greek Lead Commercial Weight with Engraved Monogram
Hellenistic Period, circa 3rd–1st century BC
Material: Lead (Pb)
Weight: 16.0 g
Dimensions: 16.1 × 15.0 × 6.8 mm
From a Private European Collection.
A fascinating and very rare Ancient Greek square lead weight, distinguished by its beautifully preserved geometric form and an intriguing engraved monogram on the obverse.
The front displays a remarkable arrangement of intersecting lines, consisting of a prominent vertical stroke, a horizontal upper bar and several shorter lateral elements. Together, these markings form a distinctive monogram-like symbol, possibly combining Greek letters or representing an ancient metrological or administrative designation.
The compact, almost perfectly square body, softly rounded corners and substantial thickness give the object an attractive architectural appearance. Its naturally aged surface displays warm sandy tones, subtle mineral deposits and the characteristic texture of ancient lead.
A Connection to Ancient Greek Commerce:
Weights were essential instruments of everyday economic life in the ancient Greek world. Merchants, traders and officials relied upon established weight standards to measure valuable commodities, verify quantities and facilitate commercial transactions.
Lead was particularly suitable for producing small weights because of its density, availability and ease of manufacture. Such objects formed part of the practical equipment used in ancient marketplaces, workshops and trading centres.
The engraved symbol is especially interesting. Greek commercial weights frequently carried letters, monograms or control marks, sometimes identifying a denomination, an issuing authority or an individual responsible for verification.
An Intriguing Metrological Detail:
At 16.0 g, this specimen falls within the weight range of certain ancient four-drachma standards. Comparable Greek lead weights of approximately 16–18 g are documented in the numismatic market.
Although the precise meaning of the engraved symbol remains unidentified, its distinctive composition offers an appealing subject for further numismatic and metrological study.
A Remarkable Survivor of Ancient Trade:
Combining a miniature square format, an intriguing engraved monogram and an attractive ancient surface, this lead weight represents a tangible connection to the commercial practices of the Hellenistic Mediterranean.
An appealing and very rare collector's piece for enthusiasts of Ancient Greek antiquities, historical metrology, epigraphy and the material culture of ancient trade.
I prove that the lot was obtained legally , provenance statement seen by Catawiki
Important information. I guarantee that I am entitled to ship this lot.
I will take care that any necessary permits will be arranged.
I will inform the buyer about this if this takes more than a few days.
Ancient Greek Lead Commercial Weight with Engraved Monogram
Hellenistic Period, circa 3rd–1st century BC
Material: Lead (Pb)
Weight: 16.0 g
Dimensions: 16.1 × 15.0 × 6.8 mm
From a Private European Collection.
A fascinating and very rare Ancient Greek square lead weight, distinguished by its beautifully preserved geometric form and an intriguing engraved monogram on the obverse.
The front displays a remarkable arrangement of intersecting lines, consisting of a prominent vertical stroke, a horizontal upper bar and several shorter lateral elements. Together, these markings form a distinctive monogram-like symbol, possibly combining Greek letters or representing an ancient metrological or administrative designation.
The compact, almost perfectly square body, softly rounded corners and substantial thickness give the object an attractive architectural appearance. Its naturally aged surface displays warm sandy tones, subtle mineral deposits and the characteristic texture of ancient lead.
A Connection to Ancient Greek Commerce:
Weights were essential instruments of everyday economic life in the ancient Greek world. Merchants, traders and officials relied upon established weight standards to measure valuable commodities, verify quantities and facilitate commercial transactions.
Lead was particularly suitable for producing small weights because of its density, availability and ease of manufacture. Such objects formed part of the practical equipment used in ancient marketplaces, workshops and trading centres.
The engraved symbol is especially interesting. Greek commercial weights frequently carried letters, monograms or control marks, sometimes identifying a denomination, an issuing authority or an individual responsible for verification.
An Intriguing Metrological Detail:
At 16.0 g, this specimen falls within the weight range of certain ancient four-drachma standards. Comparable Greek lead weights of approximately 16–18 g are documented in the numismatic market.
Although the precise meaning of the engraved symbol remains unidentified, its distinctive composition offers an appealing subject for further numismatic and metrological study.
A Remarkable Survivor of Ancient Trade:
Combining a miniature square format, an intriguing engraved monogram and an attractive ancient surface, this lead weight represents a tangible connection to the commercial practices of the Hellenistic Mediterranean.
An appealing and very rare collector's piece for enthusiasts of Ancient Greek antiquities, historical metrology, epigraphy and the material culture of ancient trade.
I prove that the lot was obtained legally , provenance statement seen by Catawiki
Important information. I guarantee that I am entitled to ship this lot.
I will take care that any necessary permits will be arranged.
I will inform the buyer about this if this takes more than a few days.
Details
Culture
Ancient Greek, Hellenistic
Century/timeframe
circa 3rd–1st century BC
Name of object
Ancient Greek Lead Commercial Weight with Engraved Monogram
Acquired from
Private collection
Year acquired
2025
Material
Lead
Country acquired from
Austria
Condition
Excellent
Previous owner acquired from
Private collection
Previous owner - year acquired
1980
Previous owner - country acquired from
Austria
I verify that I have obtained this object legally and that I am allowed to sell it
Yes
Authenticity
Original/official
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.
