Lapis Lazuli Bead Necklace String

Composed of gold rectangular tubes, interspersed with later brown and white biconical glass beads; modern clasp, restrung. 20 grams, 45.5 cm



Formerly in the collection of Mr S.M., London, formed 1948-2000. Ex property of a North London gentleman. Property of a Californian, USA, collector.

Representing Saint Antipas with a Gospel in his left hand and making the gesture of blessing with his right, dressed as a bishop, with sticharion, covered by omophorion, and surmounted by an epitrachelion; the Mandylion at the centre above the saint, Saint Mary on the left panel and Jesus on the right; Old Slavic inscription around the figures: 'ΙC ΧΡ' (Jesus Christ); 'ΜΡ ϴΥ'(Mother of God); Saint Antipas of Pergamum (Св Анти́па Перга́мский). 238 grams, 11.3 cm



Acquired from Chris Martin-Zakheim, Iconastas, 5 Piccadilly Arcade, London SW1. From the private collection of a West London, UK, gentleman, formed since the early 2000s.

The icon features meticulous craftsmanship typical of Orthodox iconography. Saint Antipas was popularly held to be a healer of tooth problems. He was martyred by burning in a brazen bull-shaped altar under the Emperors Nero or Domitian.

Each carved in the round with the head and neck resting along the spine. 2 kg total, 13.5-14.5 cm



Acquired on the UK art market. Private collection, London, UK.