Varia

A Roman Lead Tessera

Lead
Roman, 2nd century AD
H. 2.3cm; Weight: 6g

A rare lead tessera (token) showing the portrait profile of a man with curly hair and beard strongly. The effect is strongly reminiscent of the portraiture of the emperor Lucius Verus. The reverse is left flat. The function of such tesserae is cannot always be fully established, but thought to have functioned as entry “tickets” to theatre spectacles, gladiatorial games, or even brothels. “Tesserae Liberalitatis” featuring the imperial likeness were also be distributed by the emperor – a largess intended for the poor to exchange for grain.

Condition: Well preserved; grey-brownish patina.

Provenance: ex. the estate of the famous numismatist and art dealer Dr. Jacob Hirsch (1874-1955)

Item reference: VA0355