Medieval 'Thames' Iron Rowel Spur

From the right side of the face mask, the upper edge with an embossed band of diagonal lines, Jupiter’s eagle embossed to the centre, looking back and holding a laurel crown in its beak; a hole for the fastening thongs at ear-level. 87 grams, 19.7 cm



Acquired 1960s-1990s. Late Alison Barker collection, a retired London barrister.

The decoration of Roman weaponry contained themes that were directly associated with state propaganda, as well as with the Imperial cult. As the god-protector of the state and the army, Jupiter was the most esteemed. The combination of an eagle (helmet), Minerva and bust of Mars (armour) can also be understood as an image of dii militares.

Each with a broad arched and footrest with bell-shaped piercings, triangular sidepieces chiselled with geometric patterns and retaining the majority of their silver inlay, rising to D-shaped strap ring; the surfaces chiselled with geometric patterns. 1.29 kg total, 20 cm high each



Acquired from Garth Vincent, Antique Arms & Armour, Lincolnshire, UK, 2015. The Kusmirek Collection, UK. Accompanied by copy of the purchase invoice and description.

The scabbard with bronze hoop reinforcements to the upper third decorated with bands of punched holes; lateral suspension flap between bronze plates with reserved interlace motifs on hatched field; hilt with Borre Style ring-chain motifs to the upper end; hollow to the upper face. 119 grams, 24 cm



From the collection of a North American gentleman, formed in the 1990s.