Roman Carnelian Cameo with Young Cupid

With intaglio profile bust of Isis with Hathor crown and cornucopia; supplied with a museum-quality impression. 0.91 grams, 14 mm



From the collection of a Swiss gentleman formed in Europe from 1970-1980s; thence by descent from the family in London.

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.

The head of the brooch with rectangular wings with concave reverse housing the spring, a separate hinged pin fitted around the axis bar, an integral rectangular bow with a circular aperture at the apex and a central column of rectangular green/blue and red enamel cells. 33.39 grams, 60 mm



Found whilst searching with a metal detector near Conistone with Kilnsey, North Yorkshire, UK, circa 2018. Accompanied by a copy of the British Museum's Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) report no.YORYM-366098.