Irish Leather Powder Flask with Brass Fittings

Finely carved, high-relief cameo depicting profile bust of the goddess, wearing a plumed helmet with the crest supported by a winged Pegasus, her hair modelled in soft curls framing the face and falling over the shoulder above articulated lorica (battle armour); small grape-shaped earrings and multiple necklaces carefully rendered, creating an appealing contrast between martial attributes and feminine ornament; set in an unmarked, high-carat gold frame, probably struck and finished in England after the gem’s return from the Grand Tour, two lateral suspension loops. 14.98 grams, 36 mm



Acquired on the European art market.

The relief shows confident toolwork: crisp contours to the facial profile, detailed treatment of the helmet and feathers, and subtle gradations of planes between the figure and the background.

Carved in the round bust depicting a faun or centaur with a youthful face; the hair falling in exuberant curls over the goat-like ears, the mouth parted in laughter, the eyes set beneath a stern brow; on an integral pedestal base with repair to reverse. 21.4 kg, 45 cm high



Private collection, UK. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.13392-259012.

Monumental marble centaurs were excavated together at Hadrian's Villa in December 1736. Pope Clement XIII secured them for the Capitoline Museum, where they remain to this day. Bronze reproductions of the famous centaurs were very much in vogue amongst the Grand Tour travellers of the 18th century.

Comprising: a profile bust of a mature bearded man, possibly depicting a philosopher; a profile bust of a youthful woman with dressed hair. 14.3 grams total, 29 mm each



Acquired on the European art market.