Roman Bronze Dolphin Figure

D-section swept-curve handle, the upper end developing to the foreparts of a winged lion with forelegs bent and paws resting on the vessel's rim, wings folded to the flanks; high-relief foliage detailing to the outer face of the handle; acanthus leaf to the lower end developing to a facing bearded mask of a satyr; mounted on a custom-made stand. 452 grams total, 13 cm high (17 cm high including stand)



Acquired between 1980-1983. From the 'Empire' collection, an important UK private collection of seals.

Usually this type of handles decorated ovoid-shaped oinochoai, a type of vase widespread in Southern Italy. Numerous specimens in the National Museum of Archaeology, Naples present panther or horse protomes, as do some provincial specimens from Gaul. Particular and unusual here is the lion-griffin, which refers to Greek-Egyptian motifs, perhaps connected to the cult of Isis-Serapis.

Barrel-shaped body with flared rim, stepped rear plaque and flat-section handle; the body with pierced meander pattern; fragmentary base with scrolled tendrils and other patterns. 100 grams, 17.7 cm



Acquired 1990s-early 2000s. East Anglian private collection. Property of a Essex gentleman.

Mixed group including a cosmetic grinder bed, a fish-shaped silver plate broch, a looped rein guide, a La Tène I brooch fragment, trumpet brooch fragment and other items. 127 grams total, 16-54 mm



Acquired since the 1970s. From the private collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.