Post Medieval Siena Majolica Armorial Floor Tile from Piccolomini Library

The tapering blade with a single cutting edge; replica leather scabbard decorated with 'fleur de lys' and wooden handle with bulbous guard and pommel. 229 grams, 36.5 cm long



From the collection of the famous author, writer and speaker, Gordon Bailey, Essex, UK; formed since 1968.

The term 'ballock dagger' was used in medieval times to describe a dagger with a grip bearing a considerable resemblance to a phallic symbol. It was also called 'kidney dagger' during the Victorian times. The constant characteristic is the presence of two roundish and symmetrical bulbs at the guard, with the grip itself emerging upward between them and flaring slightly towards the top, sometimes being surmounted by a cap.

Female bust modelled in the round with hair centre-parted and dressed in ringlets gathered at the nape of the neck and extending to the shoulders; mounted on a socle base. 22.1 kg, 46 cm



Private collection, England. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by a search certificate number no.12303-215648.

This portrait is directly inspired by a Roman model (fig. 1) discovered in 1880, now housed at the Museo Nazionale Romano in Rome and believed to depict Minatia Polla. The young woman depicted showcases the refined features characteristic of Roman feminine nobility, with a rounded oval face, large hemmed eyes, a long nose, and a well-defined, slightly open mouth. Her low forehead is adorned with a sophisticated hairstyle: long, soft locks separated by a middle parting that end in curls, with a few delicate strands falling over her shoulders. She wears a dress with subtle pleats and a round neckline. Upon comparing our portrait with the Roman original of Minatia Polla, it becomes evident that this piece is an exact neoclassical copy of the ancient portrait. The only notable difference is the more pronounced fullness under the chin in our version, which is less evident in the antique model. From the 18th century and throughout the neoclassical era, significant archaeological discoveries sparked immense interest and enthusiasm (as evidenced by Winckelmann), compelling contemporary sculptors to engage with ancient works to showcase their talents. The portrait presented here, given the delicacy of the features and the overall quality of the sculpture, is unmistakably the work of a master sculptor.

Plaque with floral design comprising inset glass cabochons, synthetic rubies and gold-coloured wire frond detailing. 65 grams, pendant height: 78 mm



Property of a South West London gentleman.