Ancient Roman Bronze Thimble – Remarkable Dotted Decoration –ca. 1st–4th Century AD (No reserve price)
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Selected by Peter Reynaers
Has nearly 30 years’ experience and moderated multiple online art research groups.
Estimate € 150 - € 200
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Ancient Roman bronze thimble with a domed hollow body and dense punched dot decoration, ca. 1st–4th Century AD, 17.51 mm high, 22.01 mm wide, 16.34 g, acquired 2026 from Germany via auction house, previously in a private collection since 1996, authentic original.
AI-assisted summary
Description from the seller
Ancient Roman Bronze Thimble – Remarkable Dotted Decoration – 1st–4th Century AD
Object Information
Object Type: Thimble
Culture: Ancient Roman
Period: Roman Imperial Period, ca. 1st–4th Century AD
Material: Metal Alloy, Probably Bronze
Technique: Metal Forming and Punched Dot Decoration
Form: Domed, Hollow Body with an Open Base
Dimensions
Height: 17.51 mm ±
Width: 22.01 mm ±
Weight: 16.34 g ±
Description
This metal thimble is distinguished by its domed form and the dense, regularly arranged dotted decoration covering its exterior surface. The Latin term digitale (finger protector) describes the historical function of such objects.
The small circular indentations distributed across the body create a functional surface designed to prevent the needle from slipping during sewing. Its thick-walled construction, open base, and preserved dark patina define the object's characteristic appearance.
In the Roman world, textile production and sewing were important aspects of everyday life. Small implements such as thimbles represent the material culture associated with these traditional activities.
The object's distinguishing feature is the pronounced texture created by the extensive dotted decoration. This combination of functional design and surface ornamentation makes it attractive to collectors of historical textile implements and everyday artefacts.
-All items are shipped fully insured.
Ancient Roman Bronze Thimble – Remarkable Dotted Decoration – 1st–4th Century AD
Object Information
Object Type: Thimble
Culture: Ancient Roman
Period: Roman Imperial Period, ca. 1st–4th Century AD
Material: Metal Alloy, Probably Bronze
Technique: Metal Forming and Punched Dot Decoration
Form: Domed, Hollow Body with an Open Base
Dimensions
Height: 17.51 mm ±
Width: 22.01 mm ±
Weight: 16.34 g ±
Description
This metal thimble is distinguished by its domed form and the dense, regularly arranged dotted decoration covering its exterior surface. The Latin term digitale (finger protector) describes the historical function of such objects.
The small circular indentations distributed across the body create a functional surface designed to prevent the needle from slipping during sewing. Its thick-walled construction, open base, and preserved dark patina define the object's characteristic appearance.
In the Roman world, textile production and sewing were important aspects of everyday life. Small implements such as thimbles represent the material culture associated with these traditional activities.
The object's distinguishing feature is the pronounced texture created by the extensive dotted decoration. This combination of functional design and surface ornamentation makes it attractive to collectors of historical textile implements and everyday artefacts.
-All items are shipped fully insured.
Details
Culture
Ancient Roman
Century/timeframe
ca. 1st–4th Century AD
Name of object
Thimble – Remarkable Dotted Decoration –ca. 1st–4th Century AD
Acquired from
Auction house
Year acquired
2026
Material
Bronze
Country acquired from
Germany
Condition
Excellent
Previous owner acquired from
Private collection
Previous owner - year acquired
1996
Previous owner - country acquired from
Germany
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.
