11 Roman Miniatures – Attachments, Seal Box, & Philerae (Auction 2026-06-05, Lot 173)

$385.50

Roman, Imperial period, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. A compact yet characterful group of eleven Roman attachments and miniatures, anchored by two gilt bronze phalerae once worn proudly on a soldier’s breastplate. The domed, shield-like phalerae retain traces of gilding and would have been affixed by pins to military dress, serving as visible marks of distinction and reward. Accompanying them are a sculptural winged talon attachment, six petaloid mounts composed of brass, leaded brass, and iron copper alloy, and a two-part leaded bronze seal box, its lid cast with a relief phallic design – a protective emblem tied to Roman beliefs in apotropaic power. The lid and base survive separately, as shown. Together, the group offers a glimpse into the material culture of Roman life, where military honor, personal adornment, and symbolic protection converged in small but potent forms. Size of largest (winged talon): 1.6″ W x 1.3″ H (4.1 cm x 3.3 cm)

Publication: Please note that the winged talon and seal box components contain between 37% and 49% lead.

Provenance: private Dayton, Maryland, USA collection; ex-private F. B. collection, Maryland, USA, acquired between 1990 to 2010

Condition: Hinge of seal box is broken, hence why top and bottom are shown detached from one another in photo. Weathering commensurate with age with some small chips, nicks and abrasions. Rich patina throughout and good remains of gilding on philarae.