Collection of Three Ancient Roman Amber Beads in Presentation Box

2nd century BC-3rd century AD

€ 250.00 VAT margin scheme

In stock: 1 available Article code: B22-144

Product Description

This collection comprises three authentic Roman amber beads in irregular shapes and varying sizes. They are presented together in a modern presentation box that protects them from dust and scratches.

Dimensions

Individual bead sizes: ± 18,6 mm; ± 17,7 mm; ± 19,1 mm

Condition
The beads are in good condition. Minor surface irregularities and signs of wear consistent with ancient beads.

Delivery

The three beads will be supplied in the presentation box as shown.

Amber was a rare and highly valued material throughout the Celtic and Roman periods. For centuries, trade routes later collectively known as the Amber Road carried this ‘gold of the north’ from the coasts of the North Sea and Baltic Sea through Celtic territories to the Mediterranean world.

Among both Celtic and Roman communities, amber beads were worn as ornaments and amulets. The material’s warm colour, natural lustre and electrostatic properties contributed to the belief that it possessed protective, healing and magical powers. Amber beads could therefore serve not only as jewellery, but also as personal talismans intended to avert misfortune, promote health or calm the nerves while gladiators wore amber amulets for protection or good fortune.

During the Roman period, the trade in amber reached an exceptional scale. During Nero’s reign, a Roman expedition returned with enough amber to decorate the protective nets in the amphitheatre. Pliny records that the largest single piece weighed thirteen Roman pounds. One recorded example bore the hopeful inscription: “We will conquer.”