Roman Blue Glass Bead Necklace String

Squat jar with concentric rings to the base, flared rim to the mouth three high-relief galley images to the shoulder. 166 grams, 43 mm high



Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of Surrey, UK, gentleman.

The vase evokes a scene of maritime or river trade, usually linked to navigation on the Rhine or on the great rivers of Roman Gaul. In particular, the shape of the ship and the three people only half visible on its deck closely resemble the famous relief of the wine merchants of Neumagen-Dhron. The small jar was probably for domestic toilette use.

With raised central boss and peripheral discs with red enamel alternating with openwork loops; the body with a double band of blue, white and red enamelling, separated by ropework bands; remains of pin hinge and catchplate to the reverse; accompanied by a custom-made display stand. 61 grams total, 56 mm including stand



From a private New Jersey collection, 1960-1985. with Artemis Gallery, Colorado, USA, 8 March 2016, no.45. Private American collection, New York, USA.

A similar brooch is preserved in the Colchester Museum, and similarly decorated brooch discs are visible in the British Museum and have been found in Chesterholm, Vindolanda and Chepstow. It is a Roman provincial type used by military personnel and their families.

Mixed group including P-shaped bow brooches, Langton Down type brooch, flint scraper with old label 'Clactonian/Bainfield/Swanscombe/1916' and other items. 143 grams total, 29-60 mm



Property of a Gloucestershire, UK, collector. Property of an East Sussex, UK, gentleman.