Roman child's toy with silver inlay (fragment)

Roman child's toy with silver inlay (fragment)
ITEM: Child's toy with silver inlay (fragment)
MATERIAL: Bronze and silver
CULTURE: Roman
PERIOD: 1st - 3rd Century A.D
DIMENSIONS: 58 mm x 110 mm x 75 mm each, 10 mm x 45 mnm diameter (spare pieces)
CONDITION: Good condition
PROVENANCE: Ex Spanish private collection, bought in English auction house, Ex North West London gallery, acquired in a 1980s collection

Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export Licence. If you are from outside the European Union, we will have to apply for the export licence again for your country, this takes 3 to 5 weeks and has a cost of 5% of the hammer price, this amount will be added to the final invoice.

The Roman bronze chariot toy is a fascinating artifact that offers insights into Roman childhood and leisure activities, as well as the craftsmanship of Roman metalworkers. These small-scale chariots, often made from bronze, were designed as miniature replicas of the larger, ceremonial chariots used in races and processions. Typically featuring detailed designs, including miniature wheels, horses, and sometimes even tiny riders, these toys were intended to mimic the grandeur of actual Roman chariotry. The craftsmanship of these toys reflects the high level of skill and attention to detail employed by Roman artisans, showcasing their ability to create both functional and decorative objects.

Roman chariot toys were likely popular among children of affluent families, as they represent a luxury item that required a degree of wealth to afford. These toys could serve not only as playthings but also as status symbols, reflecting the social standing of their owners. The design and quality of the chariot toys often mirrored the elaborate chariots used in public games and spectacles, underscoring the cultural significance of chariot racing in Roman society. Chariot racing was a major public entertainment in Rome, and these toys allowed children to engage with and emulate the excitement of these events in their own play.

The presence of these bronze chariot toys in archaeological finds provides valuable insights into Roman social life and the material culture of childhood. They offer a glimpse into the recreational activities enjoyed by Roman children and highlight the importance of chariot racing in Roman culture.

Measurement:	11 x 5.8 cm
Depth:	7.5 cm