Roman Bronze Hand Weight

Depicted as a standing eagle with closed wings, long striated tail extending to the small pedestal; with detailing to wings, beak, eyes and feathers; a filigree collar with small medallion around the neck; holding a small rabbit in its claws; suspension loop to the back. 2.83 grams, 27 mm



From a private family collection formed since the early 19th century, thence by descent. Property of a New Zealand legal professional. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.12329-223711.

The motif of an eagle and hare is linked with the story of the Trojan War. On their way towards Troy, the two brothers Agamemnon and Menelaus, the Atreides, saw two eagles swoop down upon a pregnant hare and tear her to shreds. They interpreted it as a good omen: the two eagles were the warrior brothers, and the hare Troy.

Comprising a substantial ring mounted on a short neck with tiered collars and facetted flared flange below; three radiating carinated knops, loop to the underside. 76.36 grams, 70.36 mm overall, 21.92 mm internal diameter (approximate size British V, USA 10 1/2, Europe 23.77, Japan 22)



Found Thetford, Norfolk. From an East Anglian private collection.

Modelled in the round standing on a small discoid base with tongue-shaped leaf to the rear of the legs holding a vessel in his proper right hand, net(?) thrown over his left shoulder. 47 grams, 68 mm



From the collection of a gentleman, acquired on the London art market in the 1990s.