Roman Bronze Phallic Amulet

Modelled with the right hand in a fist placed on the brow, left hand supporting a cup on the knee, wings spread to the reverse; mounted on a custom-made stand. 160 grams total, 73 mm high including stand



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.

Hollow-formed figure of Hercules resting with his weight on his left arm, cradling his club; lionskin mantle drawn over his head and covering his shoulders, back and thighs; right arm resting on his right thigh, holding a corner of the mantle; scaphoid base with attachment holes; mounted on a custom-made display stand. 4.28 kg total, 25 cm wide including stand



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.

This bronze was probably a chariot decoration. Hercules is represented here in mature age, bearded and with a cap and body covered by the skin of the Nemean Lion, killed in the first of his labours. This kind of image of Hercules was mainly widespread in the second to third century A.D., when emperors like Commodus and Maximianus Herculius identified themselves as the new Hercules at the top of the Roman state.

Including a foot from a statuette, la Tène style military mount, mosaic glass gaming counter and other items. 124 grams total, 18-43 mm



Property of a Gloucestershire, UK, collector. Property of an East Sussex, UK, gentleman.