Chinese Han Style Terracotta Head with Headdress

Modelled in the round with beatific smile; ledge to rear for attachment of a mandorla; mounted on a display stand. 5.49 kg total, 27 cm including stand



From the private family collection of Ersula Barter-Hemmerich, the longest serving member of staff working at the United Nations, her private collection formed in the 1950s and 1960s; thence by descent to her grandson. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato.

A matched pair of penannular bracelets, each formed in tightly-bound plaited gold wire with terminals formed as the crested heads of makara, their eyes set with rubies; mounted in a lined presentation case. 24.18 grams total, 64-65mm



Habsburg, Feldman, GOLD, Important Ancient and Ethnic Jewellery and Works of Art in Precious Metal, Hotel des Bergues, Geneva, 14 May 1990, no.105, 111. Acquired by the current owner from the above sale. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.12800-241416. This lot has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database, and is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato.

Gold jewellery in northern Thailand holds both aesthetic and cultural significance, deeply rooted in regional identity, status, and spiritual belief. Traditionally crafted by skilled artisans, such pieces were not only symbols of wealth and social standing but also believed to offer protection and merit. In Lanna culture (the historic kingdom of northern Thailand), gold was closely associated with religious offerings, marriage rituals, and rites of passage, often passed down through generations as cherished heirlooms. The intricate designs—frequently featuring floral and mythical motifs—reflect both indigenous styles and broader Southeast Asian influences, underscoring gold’s enduring role in both personal adornment and communal heritage.

Painted panel with miniatures of the sources of medical materials and their origins. 40 grams, 51.5 x 37.8 cm



From the private collection of a Canadian gentleman living in Essex, UK, formed since the 1920s-circa 1990. Property of an Essex lady until the late 1990s; thence by descent. From the private collection of an Essex gentleman since the late 1990s. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato.