Life-Size Greek Style Terracotta Head

Comprising a solid round-section ring with a large, rectangular bezel set with a vibrant pink sugarloaf-shaped sapphire. 20.3 grams, 33.21 mm overall, 16.21x17.28 mm internal diameter (approximate size British M 1/2, USA 6 1/4, Europe 13.09, Japan 12)



From the private collection of Lord Ian Balfour, author of 'Famous Diamonds'; received by gift to the present owner circa 2001. Accompanied by a copy of a Gemmological Certification Services lab report invoice no.41731. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.13268-251909.

According to the GCS report, there is no indication of heating, and they have estimated the weight of the sapphire to be between 10 and 20 carats. Subsequent CT scanning has confirmed that the weight of the sapphire is 16.3 carats.

Representing Saint Nicholas of Myra with a book 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 embroidered with crosses; the saint flanked by Jesus and Virgin Mary, Christ holding the gospel, Mary the bishop’s epitrachelion; Cyrillic inscriptions 'Saint Nikolaos the Wonderworker (СВЯТЫЙ НИКОЛА ЧУДОТВОРЕЦ), Iesus Christos (ΙΣ ΧC) and Mother of God (ΜΡ ΘΥ)' on the enamelled background. 348 grams, 10.7 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. The enamel colors, despite the passage of time, retain their vibrant intensity, highlighting the key elements of the depicted images. The refined details and use of enamel give depth and luminosity to the icon, making it a precious example of the Russian Orthodox tradition.

Columnar in form with wide hips, arms folded over, projecting navel and small breasts, domed face with pierced ears and a conical headdress; after the antique. 1.01 kg, 36 cm



Ex Leo (1922-1979) and Evelyn D. Farland (1930-2025), New York; thence by descent. Private collection, London, UK.