Large Roman Bronze Latch Key

Discoid with raised, rounded rim; a 19th-century collection label bearing a handwritten inscription: ‘GAS, Miroir, Gallo Romain’ indicating the findspot; mounted on a custom-made display stand with serpentine column base. 239 grams, 13.8 cm (426 grams total, 20.1 cm including stand)



19th century collection label inscribed in ink ‘GAS, Miroir, Gallo-Romain’, indicating that the mirror was discovered at Gas, Eure-et-Loir, northern France. Private collection, UK.

The British Museum houses several notable ancient Roman silver hand mirrors, including:
1. Bursa Treasure Mirror – Part of the Bursa Treasure, a 1st-century AD Roman silver hoard discovered near Bursa, Turkey. This collection includes a large silver mirror, reflecting the luxurious personal items used by elite Roman women.
2. Chaourse Treasure Mirror – found in 1883 near Chaourse, France, this 2nd–3rd century AD hoard contains various silver objects, including a silvered bronze mirror, offering insights into the affluent lifestyles of Roman society.
These mirrors exemplify the exquisite craftsmanship and refined artistry of Roman silverwork, providing a glimpse into the daily grooming practices and material culture of the Roman elite.

Formed as a comic actor's mask (maschera), with exaggerated scooped mouth and grotesque features, hollow to the reverse; perhaps a pouring spout. 62.7 grams, 40.5 mm



Acquired on the UK art market before 2000. Property of an Essex, UK, gentleman.

With shank widening to the fluted shoulders; flat bezel set with a later oval carnelian intaglio engraved with the bust of Isis with corkscrew locks falling to shoulders, sun-disc in horns headdress and carrying a lotus flower sceptre; Serapis facing with beard and kalathos headdress. 14.46 grams, 30.01 mm overall, 21.80 x 18.99 mm internal diameter (approximate size British U, USA 10, Europe 22.52, Japan 21)



From the collection of a European gentleman living in South London; acquired 1970-1980.