Phoenician Amethyst Gemstone with Aramaic Inscription

Drum-shaped with a sloping shoulder, short neck, trumpet-style neck and mouth and a gently rounded base; three loop handles at regular intervals around the shoulder; reddish-brown painted geometric bands and cross-hatching against a cream slip. 190 grams, 93 mm wide



Ex private collection, Holland. Acquired from Royal Athena Gallery, 2003, stock no.LAE07/2500. Accompanied by an original Royal Athena label. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.11852-206835.

Modelled standing barefoot on an irregular base, wearing an ankle-length chlamys over a short-sleeved tunic; the left arm supporting a bunch of grapes, the right hand with a patera; the hair and beard neatly dressed; mounted on a custom-made stand. 279 grams total, 14 cm including stand



From a collection acquired on the UK art market from various auction houses and collections mostly before 2000. From an important Cambridgeshire estate; thence by descent. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.12317-214667.

Lares were supernatural guardians revered in ancient Roman, the cult probably adapted from an Etruscan predecessor; the word lar derives from Etruscan larth - a leader or overlord. They were believed to guard the family's wealth and look after their health and wellbeing. An offering-plate is usually modelled in one of the figure's hands, onto which small libations could be made. They were usually worshipped in groups, but offerings to individuals are also known.

Plano-convex in section with band of tight spirals forming the hair, lentoid eyes, snub nose and gaping mouth revealing fangs and protruding tongue. 28 grams, 54 mm



Acquired in the mid 1980s-1990s. Private collection, Switzerland, thence by descent. Private collection, since the late 1990s.