3rd-4th century AD. A tubular bronze whistle, straight and cylindrical in shape, trumpet-style mouthpiece with fipple. See Appels, A., Laycock, S., Roman Buckles & Military Fittings, Witham, 2007, p.146, fig.AA15.41.75 grams, 14cm (5 1/2"). Property of a London gentleman; acquired on the London art market before 2000; previously in a UK collection. The use of whistles by the Romans is documented in many archaeological finds. Excavations at legionary encampments suggest a military use of the types of whistles found there. Their exact function is not clear and much disputed among archaeologists. Whistles might have been used to transmit commands on the battlefield or just for training purposes. It is also speculated that they were used for the hunt, for sports, music or rituals. [No Reserve]