Ancient Roman Ox Bone Die

$157.87

An Ancient Roman six-sided die modelled in ox bone, known in Latin as tessera. Each side of the die is incised with the appropriate number of circles consisting of a large outer ring a smaller central one.

Date: Circa 1st-3rd Century AD
Condition: Fine condition.

SOLD

SKU: MG-189 Category: Tags: ,

Games involving dice were popular in Ancient Rome and were sometimes acompanied by a board and pieces that required moving with the luck of the roll. Whilst gambling and gaming were only legal pastimes during the festival of Saturnalia in December, plenty of Romans partook in the activity during the year. From travelling soldiers at local taverns, to the wealthy elite and ruling class, the Romans were avid fans of playing dice games.

Weight 1.4 g
Dimensions L 0.9 x W 0.9 x H 0.9 cm
Culture

Region

Material

Reference: For a similar item, please see Christie’s, 7th October 2010, London, lot number 303.010, London, lot number 303.