Amethyst Apollo Gemstone

With a lug handle and oval elongated body, two central filling-holes flanking the image of prophet Daniel enclosed within a decorative shallow border; two thin concentric circles on the base, possibly a blurred potter’s mark to the middle. 196 grams, 14.5 cm



From the collection of the French archaeologist Suzanne Gozlan, 1921-2022.

The lamp belongs to the type Atlante X or Hayes II A. The so-called Christian lamps in Terra Sigillata Africana have been classified by Hayes into two major types, I and II. He has distinguished two classes in his type II, according to geographic place of manufacture or origin. Subtype II A group lamps from central Tunisia are characterised by a fine clay, glossy light orange slip, and carefully executed decoration using a great number of neatly drawn shoulder motives.

Comprising a stylised owl figurine standing on a flared base, with incised feather detailing to the wings, legs and body, recessed eyes to accept glass inserts (one absent); fitted with a separately modelled cowl or hood with incised detail to the breast, topped with a conical finial to accept a candle. 70 grams, 10.5 cm



Acquired in the 1980s. From the Belgian collection of Mr D.S. of Flemu. Property of a North London, UK, gentleman.

The owl was the symbol of the Goddess Minerva in Roman tradition. Her name is linked etymologically to the English word 'mind' and she was considered to be the source of human intellect, patron of wisdom, crafts and sciences. The base of the figurine has been bent laterally as if to mount it on a post or rail.

With a large hoop supporting a lozenge-shaped bezel with a stylised dolphin facing right. 2.57 grams, 23.54 mm overall, 20.94 mm internal diameter (approximate size British T, USA 9 1/2, Europe 21.26, Japan 20)



From the collection of a High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, UK, gentleman, circa 2000.