100-200 AD. Roman. A bronze incense shovel with a rectangular blade with engraved dot-in-circle patterns in the pan and raised, grooved edges; a long hollow, handle with pedestalled ends and a semi-cylindrical shank bearing incised diagonal linear decoration; a round suspension loop protrudes from the end of the handle. Incense shovels, or batilla (singular batillum) were used for burning incense in ritual and domestic contexts. Excellent condition; beautiful patina; on a custom stand.Size: L:250mm / W:90mm ; 320g; Provenance: property of a Central London Gallery, previously acquired by a French Gallery, formerly in the collection of Dr. M.C.H between since 1982.