LARGE ROMAN GOLD PLAQUE WITH AN ACTOR'S MASK - WITH REPORT
Ca. 100-300 AD.
A magnificent gold plaque, almost square with a raised depiction of an actor's mask within the naos of a temple surmounted by two floral garlands. There is a reeded border. The plaque is constructed from very sturdy gold components which shows that it was intended for a good practical purpose, although what this was is unclear. Remains of protuberances on the back show that it was originally fixed to another material, perhaps wood, bone or ivory and it may well have been a casket of some type. Actors’ masks had strong protective associations in Roman art and are often seen on Late Roman jewellery which may suggest that this object is from something of important personal significance rather than furniture or such. The full report will accompany the item.
Size: L:69.9mm / W:63.3mm ; 38g
Provenance: Property of a London Ancient Art gallery; formerly in Welbank collection since 1980s.
Estimate: GBP 12000 - 24000