Roman Artefact Collection from Crococolana

Piriform in profile with flared neck and rolled rim, dimple base. 36 grams, 11.1 cm



Ex Helene Wackernagel-Wenk (1901-1979), Switzerland; thence by descent. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D’Amato.

These small jars were used as storage vessels. Their typology shows similarities with some material from Northern Black Sea region as well as with other glass finds found in Eastern Mediterranean settlements due to the decreasing variety of forms starting from the Late Roman Period, with whom they have similarities in colour, shape and typology. Helene Wackernagel-Wenk was a distinguished collector of art and antiquities, celebrated for her refined taste and commitment to preserving cultural heritage. Her collection encompassed a wide range of artefacts, reflecting her deep appreciation for the artistic and historical significance of ancient civilizations. Known for her meticulous curation, Wackernagel-Wenk’s legacy endures through the exceptional pieces that once formed part of her esteemed collection. Artefacts associated with her name are highly valued for their provenance and quality.

Frieze fragment with bust of a male in animated pose, head tilted upwards and eyes wide open; the hair executed in successive curly waves around the thick brow, the broad nose merging into the small open mouth; short curly beard on the neck but face clean-shaven; with steel mounting rod beneath. 9.85 kg, 31 cm



Private collection of a sculptor, Munich; acquired in the 1970s on the Munich art market (Ohlendorf). Accompanied by an academic report by Dr Raffaele D'Amato. Accompanied by a copy of an Art Loss Register certificate no.S00044779. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.12478-228802. This lot has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database, and is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D’Amato.

The subject seems to be a retainer of military commanders, usually represented on their sarcophagi in wild hunting parties where men, lions and boars fight. It is highly probable that the head was originally from a massive sarcophagus of a general, like the one in Palazzo Mattei in Rome.

Formed as a lady's right hand with thumb and forefinger extended to hold a grape; iron shank to the wrist. 157 grams, 10.1 cm



Ex Cambridgeshire, UK, collection, 1990s. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D’Amato.