Roman Carnelian Gemstone Collection

Modelled in the round, standing nude with one arm raised above the head and the other bent, probably from a larger ensemble of figures; mounted on a custom-made display stand. 104 grams total, 10.9 cm 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.

The figure lacks the small dorsal wings which are normally present on a putto, although the curled locks of hair are typical of the type. During the Roman imperial period, children were widely represented in the art of both the public and private spheres. Images of both mortal and divine children appeared in the artworks and furnishings of the home, on the tomb monuments and burial containers associated with the funerary realm.

Formed as a female bust with stola and tunic, braided hair dressed in a chignon; transverse ribbing above the flat base, pierced lug forming part of the hairstyle. 22.5 grams, 33 mm



Found Wiltshire, UK, before 1974.

Group of two astragali gaming pieces, each with a lead plug in the central cavity. 34.1 grams total, 29-30 mm



Acquired from Ancient & Oriental, circa 1995. Ian Wilkinson collection, Nottinghamshire, UK.