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Fine Group of Enameled Seal Boxes and a Phallic Lid
Circa 2nd-3rd Century AD
Description: A superb group of three enameled seal box elements. Two (left and bottom) are complete bronze seal boxes with top and bottom elements hinged together. The third (left) is the top only but is enlivened with bronze phallic symbol in relief.
The largest of the group has a pyriform shape with rounded knob at tip. Hinged lid is decorated with three crescent cells at the widest point and triangular cell at tip, all with remnants of yellow-green enamel. Green enamel fills the spaces between. Three small holes on underside. Red and green patina. The smaller, circular seal box has a lid decorated with round raised central cell with green enamel. Encircling the cell are moulded patterned circles. Three small holes on underside. Green and bronze patina.
The final object is a lid to a pyriform-shaped seal box with phallus centrally embossed in raised relief. Circular cell at tip of phallus with traces of enamel and additional green enamel surrounding the phallus. Green and bronze patina.
Length: Range from 0.9 in (2.4 cm) to 1.6 in (4 cm)
Condition: Fine condition and intact as shown.
Provenance: Formerly a German property.
Reference: See Ancient Brooches and Other Artefcts by Richard Hattatt, nos. 138, 150 and 167A for each of the items.
Background: These small containers secured a cord embedded in wax to protect documents from tampering during delivery.
Price: $ 700 for the group of three
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