Roman and Other Yellow Glass Bead Necklace String

Ellipsoid nicolo cloison with profile figure of Jupiter enthroned and an eagle at his feet; set into a later gold ring; supplied with a museum-quality impression. 8.55 grams, 24.77 mm overall, 19.08 x 19.94 mm internal diameter (approximate size British S, USA 9, Europe 20, Japan 19)



with Gallery Desmet, Belgium. Private collection, England.

A statuette of an acrobat on a round, drum-shaped base, standing on his hands, body arching slightly and legs together; wearing a loin cloth and cap decorated with floral pattern; eyes inlaid with silver. 162 grams, 12 cm high



Ex property of a Surrey collector; acquired in the early 1970s. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.13125-249637.

Acrobats in ancient Rome could perform at a number of venues; either in theatres, as 'gap fillers' between gladiatorial contests at the amphitheatre, at private parties or at impromptu street performances and fairs. A convivium was a dinner party with family, friends or associates. It was somewhat like a Greek symposium except that it was generally regarded as a chance to talk business or politics rather than philosophy and weighty matters. A commissatio was a wild drinking party. Prostitutes, jugglers, musicians, acrobats, actors and fire-eaters entertained guests at the banquets of wealthy Romans. From the descriptions given by Roman authors these banquets were lavish affairs with rose petals scattered on the floor, mechanical devices lowering acrobats and entertainers from the ceiling and slaves blew exotic scents into the room. The emperors also had special entertainment barges constructed on some of the ornamental lakes in the parks of Rome where acrobats entertained the guests.

Modelled in the round standing with legs advancing, left arm cradling a cornucopia; hair drawn back in a chignon, surmounted by a modius; attachment loop below feet. 145 grams, 10.5 cm



Acquired before 1990. Ex London gallery, 1990s. Private collection, London, UK.

The Roman Empire was one of the most powerful and influential civilisations of the ancient world, lasting for many centuries. It is known for its impressive cities, roads, engineering, art, and military strength, as well as its system of law and government. At its height, the empire brought together many different cultures, and its ideas and achievements continued to shape Europe and the wider world long after its fall.