Etruscan Variegated Agate Scaraboid Gemstone with Dancing Satyrs

Modelled in the round standing figure with palla draped over the left shoulder and from the hips, extending to calf-length; the head with aquiline nose and dimpled chin modelled with a wreath of large leaves around the brow forming a corona; exaggerated eyes left blank to accept silver inserts; left arm bent, hand holding an incense-holder with cruciform design; right arm extended at shoulder-height with phiale mesomphalos offering dish; socket beneath left foot and screw-threaded post beneath right, repairs to both lower legs. 1.23 kg, 28.4 cm high



Sotheby's, New York, 17 December 1996, no.79. Private collection, New York, USA. Accompanied by copies of the relevant Sotheby's catalogue pages. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.13355-255463.

The figure is probably a devotee or priest of Diana preparing to make ritual observances with the offering plate and incense burner. A group of similar figures was recovered from the shallows of Lake Nemi south of Rome, close to the site of the Temple of Diana.

Scaraboid type with incuse design to the underside of two opposed dancing satyrs, heads and arms missing, possibly unfinished or cut down from a depiction of a lion and hero; supplied with a museum-quality impression. 2.75 grams, 17 mm



From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s.

Comprising a flat disc with lightly lipped rim and incised ring, five clusters of ring-and-dot motifs around central ring-and-dot; applied handle with lateral arms at base, balustered shank. 113 grams, 17.2 cm



From the private collection of Mr Brian Edwards, New Malden, Surrey, UK, formed from the late 1970s-early 1980s; thence by descent.