{"title":"Artifacts","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"377\" data-end=\"955\"\u003eThe Artifacts collection includes a diverse selection of authentic historical objects from ancient to post-medieval times. Each artifact is a genuine piece of history—ethically sourced, professionally identified, and fully documented with provenance and scholarly context. The collection ranges from everyday tools, amulets, weights, and personal belongings to unique finds that reflect the craftsmanship and daily life of past cultures. These artifacts are ideal for collectors, researchers, or anyone interested in exploring the tangible heritage of civilizations across time.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp style=\"margin-top:18px;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/auroraantiqua.store\/blogs\/questions-and-answers\/ancient-artifacts-figurines-for-sale-guide\" style=\"color:#8a684c;font-weight:600;\"\u003e→ Read the ancient artifacts \u0026amp; figurines guide\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"byzantine-terracotta-lamp-ioannes-6th-c-ce","title":"Byzantine Terracotta Lamp 'Ioannes' (6th c. CE)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis genuine Byzantine terracotta oil lamp dates to the 6th century AD. Crafted from fine terracotta, the lamp measures 8.1 cm in length and remains in good, stable condition, preserving the character and daily life of early Christian Byzantium. Such lamps were used throughout the empire for household illumination, religious rituals, and as symbols of faith.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDetails\u003cbr\u003eEra: Byzantine, 6th Century AD\u003cbr\u003eMaterial: Terracotta\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eObject: Oil lamp\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eLength: 8.1 cm\u003cbr\u003eCondition: Good, with minor ancient wear consistent with age\u003cbr\u003eProvenance: Private collection of Alain Grenier (1930-2022), France-Ambassador, Diplomat, and Consul General\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eUnique Identifier: O-B-01-P\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHistorical Context:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOil lamps like this were essential objects in Byzantine daily life, providing light in homes and churches. Their simple yet elegant forms often reflected local traditions and spiritual symbolism. This piece offers a direct link to the domestic and sacred world of the early medieval Mediterranean.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRestoration:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis lamp is offered in as-found, original condition. No restoration has been undertaken or is available for this piece.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Aurora Antiqua","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51290118848842,"sku":"O-B-01-P","price":400.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0897\/7140\/9738\/files\/il_fullxfull.6990019918_b8jf.jpg?v=1753254528"},{"product_id":"roman-iron-knife-atticus-1st-c-bc","title":"Roman Iron Knife 'Atticus' (1st c. BC)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis is an exceptional Roman legionary pugio (military dagger) dating to the late Republic or early Imperial period, around the 1st century BC. Forged from solid iron, the dagger features a strong, triangular blade with a prominent midrib, perfectly suited for piercing armor gaps in close combat. The utilitarian, unadorned style reflects the no-nonsense ethos of the Roman military. The original organic grip is lost, but three rivet holes at the tang attest to its construction. The overall form remains robust, and the surface displays stable archaeological patina.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDimensions:\u003cbr\u003eLength: 21.7 cm\u003cbr\u003eWidth: 4.2 cm\u003cbr\u003eThickness: 1.2 cm\u003cbr\u003eMaterial: Iron\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eUnique Identifier: W-R-01-I\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProvenance:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the distinguished collection of Dr. Matthias Köhler (1898-1974), a noted physician and collector of Roman militaria from Freiberg, Saxony. As a passionate amateur historian, Dr. Köhler assembled his collection in the 1920s-30s, often documenting each item with notes and drawings. This pugio was reportedly found in the 1930s in a disturbed Roman grave near Salzburg, Austria-an area rich in Roman and Celtic archaeological material.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCollection History:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOriginally acquired by Dr. Köhler, 1927, from Franz Lechner, a local farm worker who discovered the grave while plowing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe grave contained Roman swords, fibulae, Celtic-Dacian knives, and cavalry gear-indicating a high-status auxiliary or culturally mixed Roman soldier.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAccompanied by Dr. Köhler's handwritten notes and collection records, providing direct chain-of-custody and scholarly context.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHistorical Context:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe pugio was a standard-issue dagger for Roman legionaries and auxiliary soldiers, prized for its utility in both combat and daily camp life. This example stands out for its practical design, without decorative embellishments-likely used in earnest by a soldier stationed on the Empire's northern frontier. The artifact provides insight into the cultural blending of Roman and native traditions in the provinces, and the realities of life (and death) on the Empire's edge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCondition:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExcellent archaeological condition for iron; the blade is structurally stable, with expected corrosion and mineralization from burial. Grip is absent, but the tang and rivet holes are intact, offering potential for further academic study.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSummary:\u003cbr\u003eA rare, museum-quality Roman legionary dagger, ex-Köhler Collection. With its well-documented provenance, direct archaeological context, and honest utilitarian character, this pugio is a testament to the soldiers who helped shape Europe's ancient history.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Aurora Antiqua","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51290119438666,"sku":"W-R-01-I","price":3500.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0897\/7140\/9738\/files\/il_fullxfull.6948651753_3zkp.jpg?v=1753255232"},{"product_id":"viking-iron-knife-gunnar-9th-10th-c-ce","title":"Viking Iron Knife 'Gunnar' (9th-10th c. CE)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis distinctive Viking knife dates to around AD 800-1000. It features a robust, single-edged iron blade with a pronounced curve and a sharp point-typical for Viking utility and personal knives. The handle is a modern reconstruction in bone, skillfully carved to resemble a raven's head, complete with incised Norse-inspired motifs. The raven is a powerful symbol in Viking mythology, representing wisdom, guidance, and a connection to Odin, the all-father god. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEra: Viking Age, 9th-10th Century AD \u003cbr\u003eMaterial: Iron blade, reconstructed bone handle \u003cbr\u003eSize: 210mm x 25mm \u003cbr\u003eProvenance: From a private UK collection; ex-British collection pre-2000 \u003cbr\u003eCondition: Blade is original, handle is modern but based on historical designs\u003cbr\u003eIdentifying number: W-V-1-I\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHistorical Note: \u003cbr\u003eRavens held special meaning in Viking society, linked to Odin's mystical ravens Huginn and Muninn, who brought news from the world. Knives like this served as practical tools but could also express status or personal belief. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRestoration Statement: \u003cbr\u003eThe iron blade is original and shows typical age patina; the handle has been replaced to evoke the spirit and artistry of Viking bone carving, while making the piece display-ready.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Aurora Antiqua","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51290122912074,"sku":"W-V-1-I","price":850.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0897\/7140\/9738\/files\/il_fullxfull.6948637897_11b1.jpg?v=1753255926"},{"product_id":"roman-bronze-statue-equus-martialis-1st-c-bc-2nd-c-ad","title":"Roman Bronze Statue 'Equus Martialis' (1st c. BC-2nd c. AD)","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"263\" data-end=\"732\"\u003eThis exceptional Roman bronze statuette, “Equus Martialis,” dates to the late Republic or early Imperial period (ca. 1st century BC to 2nd century AD). Expertly cast in solid bronze, the piece stands 4.5 cm high and 3.7 cm wide, displaying a rich mottled green and dark patina from centuries of burial. The horse stands proudly atop a rectangular base adorned with distinctive dot and incised patterns, a detail characteristic of Western Roman provincial craftsmanship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"734\" data-end=\"1050\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"734\" data-end=\"747\"\u003eMaterial:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bronze\u003cbr data-start=\"754\" data-end=\"757\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"757\" data-end=\"766\"\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Roman, 1st century BC – 2nd century AD\u003cbr data-start=\"805\" data-end=\"808\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"808\" data-end=\"823\"\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 4.5 cm height, 3.7 cm width\u003cbr data-start=\"851\" data-end=\"854\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"854\" data-end=\"868\"\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent ancient patina, well-preserved with crisp details and no major losses\u003cbr data-start=\"948\" data-end=\"951\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"951\" data-end=\"966\"\u003eProvenance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Private Belgian collection, acquired in the 1960s\u003cbr data-start=\"1016\" data-end=\"1019\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1019\" data-end=\"1041\"\u003eUnique Identifier:\u003c\/strong\u003e S-R-01-B\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1052\" data-end=\"1481\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1052\" data-end=\"1082\"\u003eDescription \u0026amp; Iconography:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1082\" data-end=\"1085\"\u003eThe horse is rendered in a naturalistic yet stylized manner, capturing both the muscular grace and symbolic presence prized in Roman art. The sturdy stance and raised head evoke themes of strength and nobility. The decorated rectangular base—punched and engraved with dot motifs—highlights the artistry of provincial Roman bronzes and is an indicator of status and care in the piece’s production.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1483\" data-end=\"1954\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1483\" data-end=\"1520\"\u003eFunction \u0026amp; Cultural Significance:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1520\" data-end=\"1523\"\u003eBronze horse figurines were beloved across the Roman world, functioning as votive offerings in temples (often to Mars, god of war), domestic decorations in wealthy households, or, less commonly, as grave goods. For Romans, the horse was a potent symbol of power, military prowess, mobility, and elite status. The presence of such a piece in a collection would signal refined taste and an appreciation for Roman values and artistry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1956\" data-end=\"2271\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1956\" data-end=\"1981\"\u003eComparative Examples:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1981\" data-end=\"1984\"\u003eSimilar examples are found in Roman Britain, Gaul, and Italy—most notably at Lullingstone temple and among the Pompeii votive bronzes. The unique decorated base connects this example to the Western provinces, and such detail is rarely encountered in pieces of this size and preservation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2273\" data-end=\"2567\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2273\" data-end=\"2306\"\u003eRestoration and Authenticity:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"2306\" data-end=\"2309\"\u003eOffered in untouched, original condition, with a stable, even patina and authentic surface encrustation from centuries underground. No modern repairs or over-cleaning—this piece retains its full archaeological character. Certificate of Authenticity included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2569\" data-end=\"2891\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2569\" data-end=\"2592\"\u003eHistorical Context:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"2592\" data-end=\"2595\"\u003eIn Roman religion and society, animal figurines were not mere toys—they embodied prayers, victories, and the aspirational qualities of the empire. This horse, possibly offered in thanks or displayed in a domus, represents the enduring connection between Romans, their gods, and their daily lives.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Aurora Antiqua","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51485760291146,"sku":"S-R-01-B","price":1200.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0897\/7140\/9738\/files\/IMG_7742.jpg?v=1754507398"},{"product_id":"roman-bronze-fibula-lucius-2nd-c-ad","title":"Roman Bronze Fibula 'Lucius' (2nd c. AD)","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"226\" data-end=\"706\"\u003eA Roman bronze equal-ended fibula featuring a central lozenge-shaped plate and zoomorphic terminals stylized as turtle heads. The lozenge panel retains traces of its original green enamel, a hallmark of this fibula type. Both terminals display carefully carved detailing typical of provincial Roman workshops of the 2nd century AD. The original pin is missing, as expected for archaeological brooches, but the body remains complete with an appealing dark patina.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"708\" data-end=\"1054\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"708\" data-end=\"719\"\u003eDetails\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"719\" data-end=\"722\"\u003eMaterial: Bronze with residual green enamel\u003cbr data-start=\"765\" data-end=\"768\"\u003eDate: Roman Empire, 2nd Century AD\u003cbr data-start=\"802\" data-end=\"805\"\u003eDimensions: Length c. 55.2 mm; Width c. 32.8 mm\u003cbr data-start=\"852\" data-end=\"855\"\u003eProvenance: Private European collection, acquired in the late 20th century\u003cbr data-start=\"929\" data-end=\"932\"\u003eUnique Identifier: F-01-B\u003cbr data-start=\"957\" data-end=\"960\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003eCondition: Good archaeological condition; pin missing; stable patina and preserved detailing\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1056\" data-end=\"1280\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1056\" data-end=\"1088\"\u003eRestoration and Authenticity\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1088\" data-end=\"1091\"\u003eThis fibula has been \u003cstrong data-start=\"1112\" data-end=\"1156\"\u003elightly cleaned and carefully stabilised\u003c\/strong\u003e to preserve its archaeological surface while ensuring secure long-term handling. A Certificate of Authenticity is included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1282\" data-end=\"1725\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1282\" data-end=\"1304\"\u003eHistorical Context\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1304\" data-end=\"1307\"\u003eEqual-ended fibulae with zoomorphic terminals circulated widely across the Roman provinces during the 2nd century AD. The turtle-head form, especially with enamelled central panels, is well documented in Hattatt, including close parallels to no. 1099. These brooches served both as clothing fasteners and as personal decorative items, reflecting the fusion of Roman stylistic norms with local provincial craftsmanship.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Aurora Antiqua","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53503368659274,"sku":"F-01-B","price":580.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0897\/7140\/9738\/files\/IMG_9109.jpg?v=1765906779"}],"url":"https:\/\/auroraantiqua.com\/collections\/artifacts.oembed","provider":"Aurora Antiqua","version":"1.0","type":"link"}