Ancient Art, Antiquities, Books, Natural History, Stamps & Coins

Composed of mixed beads, the central feature comprising a four-sided conical bead and a tabular pendant, restrung. 12.07 grams, 32.5 cm



Ex London, UK, collection, 1990s.

Penannular body divided into sections with linear and ring-and-dot decoration. 31.67 grams, 65 mm



Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.

A mixed group of ceramic bullae, tesserae or theatre tokens bearing low-relief motifs, mainly consisting of profile busts of deities. 34.96 grams total, 13-22 mm



From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s.

The term 'tessera' was used in Roman times to convey the Greek term σύμβολον (token). Small tiles are known as tokens, often shaped like coins, made of metal (copper, lead, iron), clay, bone, wood, or glass, stamped as well as engraved. The tokens, however, are not exclusively coin-shaped, as the Latin term 'tessera' suggests by etymologically referring to a square or at least a four-sided shape and confirmed in several cases by material remains of the past. Tokens and tesserae seem to have been used both in Athens and Rome for the distribution of goods. According to written sources, the term token is identified with credentials of the official authorities. They have also been interpreted as tokens of identity, as entrance tickets to theatre performances, tribunals or assemblies of citizens, archival material of seal engraving, as pawns in games, Charon’s obols and even as amulets.

Composed of mixed beads in various colours, including a small 'eye' pendant, restrung. 21.55 grams, 35.5 cm



Ex London, UK, collection, 1990s.

Two small flasks with cylindrical bodies, flat bases, and small strap handles. 75 grams total, 79 mm each



From an old Derby collection, acquired during the 1960s. Acquired on the UK art market since the 1990s. From the property of a late Lincolnshire, UK, gentleman; thence by descent. Accompanied a previous catalogue information slip.

Trumpet-shaped headplate with loop above and floral detailing to the bow, herringbone detailing to the shank and foot; part of the chord still present in the headplate. 6.82 grams, 33 mm



Found Gloucestershire, UK. Ex Wiltshire, UK, collection, 1990s.

Comprising a low central bowl with a central filler hole to the discus, two nozzles each with volute detailing; canted triangular reflector with low-relief tendril ornament. 176 grams, 17 cm



Ex J.R. collection, Netherlands, since before 2000. Private collection, Europe, acquired from the above.

With broad plaque and raised ellipsoid panel, incuse advancing lion with tail raised. 5.79 grams, 24.25 mm overall, 20.12 x 15.29 mm internal diameter (approximate size British M, USA 6, Europe 12.46, Japan 12)



From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s.

The coin from the House of Constantine mounted on 22 carat gold foil, framed with an art print signed by the artist David McAllister, depicting scenes of Roman military activity; limited edition number 198/1150. 1.26 kg, 49.5 x 37.5 cm



UK gallery, early 2000s. Accompanied by a previous numbered certificate of authenticity.

David McAllister's exciting design is a 'one of a kind' work that portrays the might and riches of the Roman civilisation. This limited edition print is a celebration of the award-winning artist's lifetime dedication to historical paintings of the ancient world. To enhance appreciation of this rare and historic work, each print is signed and numbered by the artist.

Oval translucent intaglio with a profile bust of a male with strong features, a feather behind the neck. 0.37 grams, 10 mm



UK private collection assembled 1970s-90s, and thence to the liquidated state of above.

Oblate black bead with dragged trails and applied white bosses to the equator. 41 grams, 35 mm



Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.

Comprising a broad flat-section bow with incised geometric decoration, with knop finial at a flat-section foot forming a stylised zoomorphic head; hinged pin to the reverse. 26.7 grams, 96 mm



Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.