Iron Candle Holder

Stitched edges and a tubular neck with brass fittings. 84 grams, 19.3 cm



Property of a Nottinghamshire, UK, gentleman.

Expanding hoop with tendril decoration, tapering hexagonal bezel set with a carnelian intaglio with insect motif. 6.62 grams, 30.37 mm overall, 17.97 x 16.69 mm internal diameter (approximate size British N 1/2, USA 6 3/4, Europe 14.35, Japan 13)



London, UK, collection, 1980s-1990s.

Hollow-formed with pie-dish bezel and inset cameo. 3.17 grams, 21.26 mm overall, 17.72 mm internal diameter (approximate size British L, USA 5 3/4, Europe 11.24, Japan 10)



Private collection, Europe. Acquired on the English art market.

The cameo is Italian and carved in the classical style of the 2nd century AD, although it dates to the 18th century. Her hair is tied back, and she is wearing a double-banded diadem. The agate displays a deep umber hue, with the bust depicted in light bluish white with highlights of light caramel. In the late 18th century, interest in the classical world became exponentially high, and demand became great for objects from or relating to the ancient world. The high-carat gold ring dates to the late 18th century; there is a small dent to the shoulder of the band.