Roman - Lead Coffin Plate. > Lot No. 530

Description:
Circa 3rd century AD. A substantial section of a relief-ornamented lead coffin plate (the ends of the panel trimmed in modern times); the panel divided by ropework lines into diamonds and triangles with a row of small urns along the top border; each diamond containing an eight-spoked ropework star and each triangle a dolphin and four cockle shells; all are traditional funerary symbols, associated with the cult of Dionysus, which promised its initiates an existence beyond the grave, or for the repulsion of malevolent spirits.

Measurements:
80cm by 46cm.

Condition:
The lower edge ragged but the mouldings excellent and stable. Uncleaned.

References:
Cf. BM Roman London, p. 66 (fig. 32) for similar examples.

Provenance:
From a deceased estate.

Export licence:
No

Low estimate: £300
High estimate: £500

Auction date: Friday 19th March 2010 at The Swedenborg Hall 20-21 Bloomsbury Way
London WC1A 2TH

Sold for: £400