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 silver surgical / medical tool with a circular bowl, set at an angle on a short stem. The opposite end terminates in a curved hook with a gently tapered tip. The stem is decorated with incised geometric cross-hatched motifs, designed to improve grip. Such dual-ended instruments were commonly employed in Roman medical practice, serving functions ranging from the application or removal of medicaments, stirring mixtures to minor surgical procedures. The spoon end may have been used for measuring or transferring ointments, while the hooked terminal could assist in manipulating tissue or extracting foreign matter. Length: ± 136,4 mm Condition: good solid condition. Signs of wear consistent with age and use. Certificate of Authenticity: available upon request (pdf-format). MATERIAL This object has been carefully examined with regard to its material composition and surface characteristics. Specialised laboratory analysis such as metallurgical testing (e.g. XRF) is not routinely undertaken in private collecting and is more commonly associated with academic or institutional research. Destructive testing methods (such as acid testing) permanently damage the object’s surface and are not appropriate for archaeological material. Historically, modern hallmarking systems did not exist. The alloy composition of gold and silver could vary depending on local resources, trade networks, recycling practices and prevailing economic conditions.