Hellenistic and Later Bronze Ring Group

A Graeco-Roman or Phoenician chain of loop-in-loop links and thick suspension ring, gold dome with bands of applied granules capping an egg-shaped banded agate drop. 26.19 grams, 48 cm long



Acquired in the late 1980s-early 1990s. Important North West London collection. Accompanied by an academic report by Dr Raffaele D’Amato. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.11935-210477.

Agate was appreciated in the Greek and Roman world for its magical virtues. A recently found agate gemstone from Imperial-era Anapa, which differs from the other similar agate stones in its spherical shape and large size, was inscribed with a text referring to traditional Greek expulsion rituals against evil and diseases, ending with a list of human head parts similar to the one found in the Hippocratic medical handbook. The gemstone was probably worn not only as an amulet, but also as a miniature handbook with instructions for making amulets. According to Pliny the Elder (NH, XXXVII, 47) a certain type of agate was protected against spiders and scorpions.

Comprising a variety decorated fragments including: four figural black-figure fragments; one with raised line decoration; one with raised bosses; a fragment with a gazelle facing back; one with painted motifs in red; and three other fragments with painted motifs. 264 grams total, 5.3-10.5 cm



Acquired early 20th century. Ex property of UK lady by descent. Property of a Nottinghamshire gentleman.

Group of discoid clay moulds for casting contemporary counterfeit coins. 40 grams total, 27-32 mm



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