Bactrian Style Alabaster Chalice

With facetted shoulders and octagonal bezel, deep incised border enclosing incuse image of a figure supporting a large bird on his wrist. 10.39 grams, 24.74 mm overall, 20.30 mm internal diameter (approximate size British V, USA 10 1/2, Europe 23.77, Japan 22)



Private collection formed since the 1940s. UK art market. Property of an Essex, UK, gentleman.

Rectangular plaque with enamel cloisonné scene of Mary and Joseph during the flight in Egypt; left, the door of the inn open with Saint Aphrodisius emerging, head bowed; centre Jacob, stepbrother of Jesus, advancing with rod and flag over his shoulder, holding the reins of the donkey; right Mary perched on the donkey's back and St Joseph supporting infant Christ. 337 grams, 183 mm



From an old French collection. Acquired on the French art market circa 2000. From the personal collection of Derek Rogers, Suffolk, UK.

The plaque shows a version of the 'flight into Egypt' that became popular in Holland in the 16th century, it shows Saint Aphrodisius (venerated by the French as the first bishop of Beziers) welcoming the Holy family to his house, in the background is the palm tree that is said to have bent to shelter the mother and baby from the sun; as shown on this plaque, earlier iconography shows Joseph sometimes carrying the child on his shoulders while the donkey is led by an older boy who may represent the Lord's brother Jacob, who according the tradition of the Orthodox Church is interpreted to be one of the Joseph's sons by a previous marriage.

Mostly discoid in plan with stepped profile, central rosette and high-relief detailing to the outer edge; many of these objects are published in the Detector Finds book series. 569 grams total, 35-59 mm



From the collection of the famous author, writer and speaker, Gordon Bailey, Essex, UK; formed since 1968.