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The finest objects brought to you by {name}

Peter Reynaers

Collection of 5 Roman lead seals 

1. Seal with Two Imperial Busts
This remarkable lead seal features the intricately carved likenesses of two imperial figures, likely representing prominent emperors of the Roman Empire. The detailed craftsmanship captures their facial features and regalia, conveying the authority and dignity associated with their status. This dual-bust design not only emphasises the importance of leadership but also highlights the artistic skill of Roman artisans.

2. Seal with B.C. Initials
This lead seal is adorned with the initials "B.C.," possibly signifying a notable title or achievement of a prominent figure. The simplicity of its design, combined with the significance of the initials, reflects the functional yet meaningful nature of seals in ancient Roman society. Such seals were essential for authenticating documents and ensuring secure communication, serving as a symbol of identity and authority.

3 Single Imperial Bust with Lines Border, AVG N**: A striking seal showcasing a solitary imperial bust framed by a decorative line border. The inscription "AVG" indicates the figure's status as an Augustus, signifying their high rank and authority within the empire.

4. Bifocal Seal with Chestnut Leaf
This unique bifocal seal displays a chestnut leaf on one side, symbolising abundance and fertility. Its dual design adds to its intrigue, marking it as a significant artefact of personal or official use.

5. Two Standing Figures Face to Face
The reverse side of the bifocal seal features two standing figures in a face-to-face position, possibly representing an alliance or significant historical event. This depiction captures the essence of social interaction and diplomacy in ancient Rome.

Together, these seals not only illustrate the artistry of Roman craftsmanship but also provide insight into the cultural and political landscape of the time. Each piece is a valuable artifact, reflecting the intricate connections between identity, authority, and communication in the ancient world.

Seals served as ancient signatures, crucial for proving authenticity in long-distance communication. Most families had a seal to stamp documents, ensuring they were sent by the right person and reached the intended recipient; a broken seal indicated tampering.

They came in various forms, made from materials like engraved gemstones or ivory. Originating from Greek and Etruscan traditions, seals became widespread during the Roman Empire. Many exquisite examples survive, often featuring Roman gods or portraits, and were sometimes incorporated into jewellery like rings or pendants.

Archaeology

Ancient Roman, Empire seals

Reserve price

No reserve price

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Budget

From

Closing date

tomorrow

11 April

Thursday

12 April

Friday

Wednesday

26 April

Monday

Tuesday

Location

Spain

The Netherlands

Austria

Belgium

United Kingdom

France

Germany

Italy

Poland

Czech Republic

Denmark

United States

Switzerland

Hong Kong

Norway

Taiwan

Ireland

Israel

Portugal

Romania

Dimensions

Height

Width

Depth

Object

Ring

Ancient artwork

Ancient jewellery and beads

Ancient sculptures carvings and figurines

Ancient tools

Pendant

Arrow head

Amulet

Vase

Carved mineral

Raw mineral

Ancient vessels

Ewer

Tool

Ancient seals and stamps

Sculpture

Cameo

Fibula

Coin pendant

Cross

Relic

Figure

Bowl

Country of origin

Europe

Netherlands

Unknown

Egypt

Canada

Sweden

Dominican Republic

Africa

Madagascar

China

Greece

Japan

Luxembourg

Material

Bronze

Terracotta

Silver

Glass

Pottery

Faience

Ceramic

Marble

Iron

Alabaster

Gold

Earthenware

Lead

Flint

Stone

Wood

Steatite

Stoneware

Yellow gold

Bone

Pewter

Carnelian

Stucco

Horn

Gilded Bronze

Gender

Unisex

Condition

Good

Excellent

Very good

Very good condition - slightly used with small signs of wear

Very good +

Good condition - used with small signs of aging & blemishes

Fair

Excellent condition - barely used with minimal signs of wear

Good condition - used with some signs of wear

Excellent condition: barely used with minimal signs of wear

As new - unused

Fair condition -  heavily used & with possibly minor parts missing

Good condition - used with small signs of ageing

Poor

Excellent condition

Good condition

Fair condition - used with visible signs of wear

Vintage - used with visible signs of wear

Natural

Fair condition

Good condition, see description

Hand carved

Very poor - showing significant decay, loss of original texture or solidity of the material

Used but like new

Period

1850-1900

1400-1450

1650-1700

2010-2020

1800-1850

1600-1650

1960-1970

1970-1980

1990-2000

Cretaceous, Lower (145 - 100.5 million years)

Han Dynasty (206 B.C.- 220 A.D.)

Tang Dynasty (618-907)

1940-1950

1950-1960

1910-1920

1930-1940

Song Dynasty

1550-1600

1750-1800

2025

Certification

No laboratory report

CITES Appendix II - Annex B in the EU

Subject

Religion

Style

Ancient Roman

Ancient Egyptian

Medieval, Crusaders Era

Viking Era

Ancient Roman, Empire

Ancient Greek

Medieval

Neolithic

Celtic

Byzantine

Etruscan

Bronze Age

Ancient Greek, Hellenistic

Post-medieval

Bactrian

Late Roman/Early Byzantine

Ancient Egypt, Late Period

Mesopotamian

Islamic

Antique

Ancient Chinese

Western Asiatic

Ancient Chinese, Tang Dynasty

Archaeology

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Ancient Roman, Empire seals

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