Roman Bone Pyxis with Lion Heads

CIRCA 1ST CENTURY B.C.-1ST CENTURY A.D.

2 3/4 in. (39.7 grams, 71 mm).

Carved with thick rim to each end, ogee above the base and double band beneath the mouth; two facing lion masks modelled in high-relief, each with gaping jaws and a ring held between the jaws; disc to the base, domed lid. [No Reserve]

Provenance

From the old collection of Colonel Ronde, circa 1980s.
Property of a French collector.

This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by a search certificate number no.12094-214901.

Literature

Cf. similar pyxis in style with a putto in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, accession number: 23.160.61a, b.

Footnotes

According to archaeologists, the pyxis could have served as a container for cosmetics, medicinal ointments, or perfume. Soldiers’ posessions often included carved vessels and lathe-turned bowls, spoons, spatulas, knives, discs and lids, as well as pyxides, which have been found in high numbers in military camps.

CONDITION

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LOT 0101