Cypriot Terracotta Idol Head Collection

Of gently tapering profile with pinched trefoil rim to the mouth and strap handle to the rear, painted band to the neck and ring-and-dot motifs above, chevron herringbone motif below; mouth chipped. 272 grams, 18 cm



Acquired Christie's, London, 25 April 2001, no.477 (part). From an important Cambridgeshire estate; thence by descent. Accompanied by a copy of the relevant Christie's catalogue pages.

Group of discoid clay moulds for casting contemporary counterfeit coins. 57 grams total, 25-30 mm



Private collection formed in the 1990s. Acquired from a central London gallery. Property of an Essex, UK, gentleman.

Modelled standing barefoot on an irregular base, wearing an ankle-length chlamys over a short-sleeved tunic; the left arm supporting a bunch of grapes, the right hand with a patera; the hair and beard neatly dressed; mounted on a custom-made stand. 279 grams total, 14 cm including stand



From a collection acquired on the UK art market from various auction houses and collections mostly before 2000. From an important Cambridgeshire estate; thence by descent. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.12317-214667.

Lares were supernatural guardians revered in ancient Roman, the cult probably adapted from an Etruscan predecessor; the word lar derives from Etruscan larth - a leader or overlord. They were believed to guard the family's wealth and look after their health and wellbeing. An offering-plate is usually modelled in one of the figure's hands, onto which small libations could be made. They were usually worshipped in groups, but offerings to individuals are also known.