Roman Agate Gemstone with Female Bust

Modelled in the round with a lionskin mantle over his extended forearm, standing nude with a club raised over his shoulder; provided with a contemporary custom-made stand. 244 grams, 13.5 cm



Private collection, USA and Switzerland, before 1992; thence by descent. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.13195-249254.

This type of representation of Hercules, inspired by Etruscan or Italic models, was widespread in Gallo-Roman sanctuaries dedicated to the god, where several votive statues attributable to this type have been found. The musculature of the back is well-executed, as are the facial features and the details on the Nemean lion's skin.

Bulbous body and rounded underside, long neck, trumpet-shaped mouth with applied rim, applied strap handle with ribbing. 40 grams, 96 mm



Acquired in the 1992. Private collection, Switzerland, thence by descent. Private collection, since the late 1990s.

Roman glass from the 2nd to 4th century A.D. gives a fascinating insight into everyday life in the Roman Empire. By this time, glassmaking had become highly skilled, and glass vessels were being produced on a much larger scale than before. Thanks to the development of glassblowing, makers were able to create practical as well as attractive objects such as bottles, flasks, jars, and drinking vessels. Much of the glass from this period has a soft blue-green tint, caused by natural elements in the raw materials. Although some pieces were finely decorated, many were made for ordinary daily use, showing how glass had become far more common and accessible across Roman society.

With intaglio scene of a man and a winged beast in combat; inscribed to verso 'OωKA / PAKA'; supplied with a museum-quality impression. 0.44 grams, 12.71 mm



From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s.