African Glass Trade Beads

Comprising a dark green oval cameo with bright red flecks, on the upper side, a veiled head of Mary with a solemn expression, the underside featuring a classical depiction of bearded Jesus with long hair and wearing a draped garment; set in a substantial gold ring with a wide hoop. 15.59 grams, 25.53 mm overall, 16.26 mm internal diameter (approximate size British K, USA 5 1/4, Europe 9.95, Japan 9)



Acquired on the European art market. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.13390-257998.

It was believed that the scarlet flecks in the stone were the blood of Christ, hence its popular use for the subject of Christ throughout the Middle Ages until the 19th century.

Matched pair, each with a long spatulate tail, folded wings and hunched neck; ferrous remains at the attachment point. 108 grams total, 64 mm each



Found Cambridgeshire, UK.

Comprising a segmented hoop with scroll-shaped shoulders, a hinged oval bezel with a secret compartment, and a bezel decorated with twelve cut diamonds around a central green stone intaglio of a winged Amor standing on a prora playing a diaulos. 5.82 grams, 23.60 mm overall, 16.50 mm internal diameter (approximate size British L 1/2, USA 6, Europe 11.87, Japan 11)



Private collection, Europe. Acquired on the English art market.