Roman Bronze Ring and Bezel Group

Modelled in the round with putto-like features, holding a nebris draped over his shoulders in the manner of Dionysus, with tousled hair and pointed ears; one foot absent; mounted on a custom-made stand. 316 grams total, 15 cm high including stand



Acquired on the German art market, 1989-1995. with The Museum Gallery, 19 Bury Place, London, WC1A 2JB, 1998-2003. with Bonhams, London, Knightsbridge, 16-17 May 2002, no.305. Property of a London based academic, 2003-present. Accompanied by copies of the relevant Bonham's catalogue pages. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by a search certificate number no.12052-217493.

The young satyr is covered by a nebris, a deer skin, similar to an aegis, originally worn as an item of clothing by hunters and subsequently attributed to Dionysus. Consequently, it was adopted by his followers in the processions and ceremonies held in his honour, during the liturgical celebrations of the Dionysia. It was commonly worn in the same way as an aegis, tying the two front legs over the right shoulder to allow the body of the skin to cover the wearer's left side (Ovid, Metamorphoses, VI, 593). In ancient works it is seen worn by characters of the Dionysian procession: Maenads, Bacchae, Satyrs, and Sileni.

Shown standing nude with caduceus resting against the left forearm, a patera in the right hand, bunched lobes and centre-parted hairstyle; mounted on a custom-made display stand. 69 grams total, 98 mm 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.

Mercury is one of the most widespread divinities among the votive statuettes of Roman Age. The god of the Roman pantheon was similar to the Greek Hermes and the Etruscan Turms.

Mainly spherical, drum-shaped, annular and other types, including some 'trade wind beads'. 160 grams total, 2-12 mm



From the private collection of the late Mrs Belinda Ellison, a long time member of the Egyptian Exploration Society, c.1940-2020.