Roman Bronze Steelyard Weight: Marcus Aurelius

An ancient Roman leaded bronze steelyard balance weight in the form of a bust of Marcus Aurelius, bearded wearing a tunic with military epaulettes and a pendant chain suspending a gorgoneion.

Roman Britain.

Ca. 161 - 180 AD.

Height: 3 1/2 in. (7.2 cm).

Roman steelyard (statera) balance weights were often made in the form of deities related to trade like Mercury, Minerva, or Roma. They were also made in form of long reigning emperors.

Formerly in a Michigan private collection, acquired from Royal-Athena Galleries in 1988; previously, Sotheby's, London, July 14, 1986, lot 380.

Exhibited: Miami University Art Museum; Ball State University Art Museum; George Mason University Art Museum, Fitchburg Art Museum, 1988 - 2016.

Inv#: 7811

Guaranteed Authentic

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