Roman Bronze Nibbling Rat Figurine

The coin mounted on 22 carat gold foil, framed with an art print signed by the artist David McAllister, depicting scenes of Roman military activity; limited edition number 23/1150. 1.3 kg total, 48.5 x 36.5 cm



UK gallery, early 2000s. Accompanied by an old certificate of authenticity.

David McAllister's exciting design is a 'one of a kind' work that portrays the might and riches of the Roman civilisation. This limited edition print is a celebration of the award winning artist's lifetime dedication to historical paintings of the ancient world. To enhance appreciation of this rare and historic work, each individual print is signed and numbered by the artist.

The face moulded with a central motif of three trumpet heads all meeting at a triangular central point, in-between each outer trumpet motif is a scallop-shell like element; the reverse carry's a single rectangular lug for the spring and pin, and a single transverse rectangular tab to act as a catchplate, but appears to be unfinished. 10.8 grams, 35 mm



Found whilst searching with a metal detector near Kettlewell with Starbotton, North Yorkshire, UK, early 2022. The evidence of the manufacturing process makes this find a 'Find of Note', and has been designated by the British Museum's Portable Antiquities Scheme to be of Regional importance. Accompanied by a copy of the British Museum's Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) report no.SWYOR-A1B317.

Mackreth notes that this brooch is uncommon in Britain. This brooch directly parallels LIN-B8C6EB and no.11664 (Mackreth 2011, p.172-173, Type 7c, no.11664, p.115).

Oval in shape; the main subject of the gryllos a youth wearing a horse-head topped helmet, the body a ram's head holding an ear of corn in its mouth, the legs and tail that of a cockerel. 0.34 grams, 11 mm



Acquired 1980-2015. Ex Abelita family collection.

According to Plutarch, grylloi had apotropaic properties to ward off the evil eye.