Roman Bronze Skillet

With rounded base and everted rim, base exterior decorated with a raised stylised floral motif composed of a large flower head with leaf-like petals and a second smaller flower head to centre. 189 grams, 12.5 cm wide



Acquired early 1990s. Ex private American collection; thence by descent. Private Swiss collection since 1998.

The rectangular stele modelled in the half-round representing a banqueting scene with elaborate couch and reclining character; the couch with banded and padded platform, rounded cushion with bands of ornament; the figure depicting a young noble wearing a male Palmyrene costume with band of scrolled foliage ornament, hair dressed into braided tresses and wound round the brow; left arm supporting the body on the cushion, right hand placed before the chest holding the handle of a footed kylix; rectangular border; mounted on a custom-made stand; head restored. 11.2 kg total, 46 cm including stand



Ex P.A., Hertfordshire, UK, specialist collection of Greek art, 1980-1990s.

The character shows a typical male in Palmyrene costume, with long sleeved tunic and large central band, decorated with interlaced vegetal embroidery. Its position is typical of the so-called 'banquet' reliefs. The belt is also decidedly masculine. The sculpture, originally headless, was probably reworked in the upper part, with the addition of a female head incompatible with the rest of the body.

Mixed group of discoid counters, two pierced. 8.15 grams total, 15-27 mm



Found Billingsgate spoil from the Thames foreshore, London, UK, circa 1984. Property of an Essex collector.