Roman and Later Bronze Ring Group

With piriform lower body, extended cylindrical neck and rolled flange rim. 31 grams, 11.3 cm



Previously with Astarte Gallery, London W1, UK, 1983. From the private collection of T.R. Elley, West Sussex, UK, 1980s. Accompanied by the original invoice dated 18 October 1983.

Discoid with raised, rounded rim; a 19th-century collection label bearing a handwritten inscription: ‘GAS, Miroir, Gallo Romain’ indicating the findspot; mounted on a custom-made display stand with serpentine column base. 239 grams, 13.8 cm (426 grams total, 20.1 cm including stand)



19th century collection label inscribed in ink ‘GAS, Miroir, Gallo-Romain’, indicating that the mirror was discovered at Gas, Eure-et-Loir, northern France. Private collection, UK.

The British Museum houses several notable ancient Roman silver hand mirrors, including:
1. Bursa Treasure Mirror – Part of the Bursa Treasure, a 1st-century AD Roman silver hoard discovered near Bursa, Turkey. This collection includes a large silver mirror, reflecting the luxurious personal items used by elite Roman women.
2. Chaourse Treasure Mirror – found in 1883 near Chaourse, France, this 2nd–3rd century AD hoard contains various silver objects, including a silvered bronze mirror, offering insights into the affluent lifestyles of Roman society.
These mirrors exemplify the exquisite craftsmanship and refined artistry of Roman silverwork, providing a glimpse into the daily grooming practices and material culture of the Roman elite.

Modelled in the round standing on a square base, wearing a knee-length chiton; right hand held out flat, left hand supporting a frond; short hair and exaggerated nose. 19.97 grams, 44 mm



From a private Tyneside collection, formed since the early 2000s.