Bronze Statue of Egyptian Osiris

Broadly rectangular in cross-section and constructed from two sheets of gold; the external hoop carrying an etched decorative design comprised of a row of eight-armed stars in relief with a prominent horizontal line connecting the stars; the internal hoop with Latin inscription in block capitals reading '+FORTES FORTVNA IVVAT' translating to 'fortune favours the brave/strong'; straightened. 1.45 grams, 18.86 mm overall, 16.70 mm internal diameter (approximate size British L 1/2, USA 5 3/4, Europe 11.24, Japan 10)



Found whilst searching with a metal detector in Wingham, near Dover, Kent, UK, on Sunday 8th August 2021. Accompanied by a copy of the British Museum's Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) report for Oxfordshire under reference no.KENT-8F86BC. Accompanied by a copy of the report on find of potential Treasure for H M Coroner with reference no.2021T985. Accompanied by a copy of the letter from HM Senior Coroner for Oxfordshire disclaiming the Crown's interest in the find.

The inscription is a Latin proverb used in the play Phormio by Terence in 151 B.C. It is possible that the inscription was intended as a devotion of loyalty and symbol of pride, instead of being given as a symbol of fidelity.

Squat with bulbous profile, six circumferential bands of cuneiform text to the body; after the antique. 216 grams, 10 cm wide



From a London, UK, collection. Property of a North London, UK, gentleman.

Two wooden figure heads mounted on custom-made display stands, one a puppet-head with movable mouth, the other wearing a gilded spiked headdress; painted eye and brow detailing. 609 grams total, 28.3-29 cm high including stand



Acquired 1990s-early 2000s. Ex East Anglian private collection.