Roman Bronze Statuette of Mercury

Comprising two parallel tubes joined at the base and sides, each with flared rim and covered with fine glass trails, applied lateral loops to the rim and handle above; iridescent aqua glass; handle absent; accompanied by a group of handle fragments. 175 grams total, 2.3-17.2 cm



From a collection acquired on the UK art market from various auction houses and collections, primarily before 2000. From an important Cambridgeshire estate; thence by descent.

Wide domed body with flat base, tall narrow piriform neck and splayed rim. 42 grams, 14 cm



Ex London, UK, collection, 1980-1990s.

The lachrymatous (or lacrimal vase or unguentarium) was a vial of glass that contained ointments or perfumes. These small vessels, often found in Roman tombs, were formerly supposed to have been bottles into which mourners dropped their tears. Instead they contained perfume and unguents, and the large quantity of vessels found in tombs is due to the use of unguents at funeral ceremonies.

Iron shoe with lateral curved plates with attachment rings rear panel with bar also for attachment. 363 grams, 15 cm



From the collection of the famous author, writer and speaker, Gordon Bailey, Essex, UK; formed since 1968.

Hipposandals (soleae ferreae) were used on horses with injured hooves, a sort of equine orthopaedic shoe used by the mulomedicus, i.e. a Roman military veterinarian. Another important function was that to protect the hooves of the horse from injuries and damages from hard objects. The hippo sandal of type 1 was formed from a sub-oval plate which tapered towards the front and rear with projections at the front, back and on either side. The heel was upturned at about 45 degrees and flared outwards. It would have terminated with a downward facing hook, now missing. The base of the sole was flat.