Late Tudor Bronze Four-Way Seal Matrix

A cameo scene comprising a standing female figure with hair tied in a chignon, approaching a perching eagle with wings spread and clutching a sphere in one claw; the woman drawing the bird's beak close to her forehead; the eagle with claws extended leaning on a branch; exergue below. 118 grams, 87 mm



Private collection, England. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.13172-249567.

The eagle is probably a metamorphosed personification of Jupiter, and the globe is a symbol of domain and military power. The scene is an interesting allegorical composition with possible references to the metamorphosis and Jupiter's love affairs, considering the presence of the naked female figure. The peculiar superimposition of the limbs is inspired by ancient models. The scene is engraved on the white layer of the glass paste, characterised by a dark violet second layer (seen with a powerful light from the back). On the back, traces of the glass dough melting. The evident presence of clear engraving marks and the cut glass bubbles confirms the fact that this work is an intaglio (not a cast). A work with a personality, showing undercuts.

Ellipsoid bezel with flange rim, inset cameo with a group of four adults holding an infant on a plinth; a rare subject for depiction. 8.91 grams, 24.68 mm overall, 19.41 x 17.44 mm internal diameter (approximate size British P 1/2, USA 7 3/4, Europe 16.86, Japan 16)



Private collection, Europe. Acquired on the English art market. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.13152-248333.

Including various coins, mounts, rings, a toy cannon, and others. 540 grams total, 11-62 mm



Found Tyne and Wear, UK. This lot is for UK buyers only, not for export.