Roman Bronze Dagger Amulet

Of quadrilateral form, with a rectangular cross-section at base, tapering to a rounded dome with large integral suspension loop with five facets to the outer face; clanger absent. 162 grams, 82 mm



Acquired before 2000. From the collection of a European gentleman living in the UK.

The Romans used bells in ritual and secular contexts, when they could be suspended from the necks of animals, worn for talismanic protection or as anklets by servants.

Lug handle to rear, deep discus with a dome filling hole, another filling hole to the side; wide shoulder with low-relief laurel wreath; low basal ring and incised maker's mark in Greek letters (ΗΙϹΧΛ). 138 grams, 11.8 cm



Acquired on the European art market, 1980s. English private collection.

This form of lamps is characterised by their shoulder decoration - a laurel wreath. This decoration may be treated realistically or be stylised. Both groups appear on lamps found in Italy. The hypothesis that they might only be African imports is contradicted by the signature on many lamps of L.C A E S A E, a prolific Italic lamp maker (late Antonine and early Severan); his products are scarce in North Africa.

Mixed group including tutulus, Langton Down, Aucissa and other types. 35.6 grams total, 23-45 mm



From a collection acquired on the UK art market from various auction houses and collections mostly before 2000. From an important Cambridgeshire estate; thence by descent.