Ancient Roman Bronze Pair of cymbals

ITEM: Pair of cymbals
MATERIAL: Bronze
CULTURE: Roman
PERIOD: 1st - 3rd Century A.D
DIMENSIONS: 40 mm x 60 mm diameter
CONDITION: Good condition
PROVENANCE: Ex Jerusalem private collection, A.K., with Israeli export licence number 57470
Comes with Certificate of Authenticity and Export license.

If you bid outside the European Union and win the item, we will have to apply for an export licence for your country and shipping will take 3 to 5 weeks.

The Roman cymbal, crafted from bronze, played a significant role in the musical and religious practices of ancient Rome. These percussion instruments were crucial components of Roman music, adding rhythm and texture to various musical compositions and performances. Cymbals consisted of two circular plates made of bronze alloyed with tin, which were struck together or against other surfaces to produce a sharp, metallic sound. The size and thickness of the cymbals varied, allowing for a range of tones and timbres to be produced.

In Roman society, cymbals were not only used for secular music but also held religious significance. They were commonly employed in religious ceremonies, processions, and rituals dedicated to various deities, including those associated with fertility, harvest, and war. The rhythmic clashing of cymbals was believed to invoke divine favor, drive away malevolent spirits, and enhance the spiritual atmosphere of religious gatherings. As such, cymbals were integral to the performance of sacred music and played a role in connecting worshippers with the divine.

The craftsmanship of Roman bronze cymbals reflected the advanced metallurgical techniques of the time. Skilled artisans carefully shaped and tuned the bronze plates to achieve the desired sound quality and resonance. Some cymbals were decorated with intricate designs, engravings, or inscriptions, further highlighting their cultural and aesthetic significance.