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LOT 0688
Roman Carnelian Gemstone with Animals
CIRCA 1ST CENTURY B.C. OR LATER
5/8 in. (1.68 grams, 17 mm).
Of plano-convex form, depicting an ear of wheat, a fly, an elephant in profile, a mouse and a locust; accompanied by a museum-quality impression.
ProvenanceEx property of a London gentleman; acquired by his father in the 1970s; thence by descent.
CONDITIONTimeLine Auctions follows a vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process
AUCTIONS:
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Roman Silver-Gilt Military Buckle for an Elite Imperial Officer
4th-5th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £7,800
Comprising a rectangular plate, richly decorated with embossed laurel leaves in a grid, framed with raised bosses, the buckle loop comprising opposing dragons with open mouths, holding a spherical tongue-rest, another pair of smaller dragon heads to base, the tongue with a smaller pair of punch-decorated dragon heads. 152 grams, 11.2 cm
Acquired before the 1970s. Ex J.L. collection, Surrey, U.K., thence by descent. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.203881.
Most precious military buckles, like this one, were reserved for soldiers belonging to Legiones Palatinae, i.e. the legions forming part of the imperial Comitatus, accompanying the emperor in his military expeditions. -
Roman Silver Panther Head
1st-2nd century A.D.Estimate: £300 - 400 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £167
Modelled in the half-round with naturalistic detailing, forming a socket through the open mouth; right-angled recess to reverse. 5.3 grams, 16 mm
‘The Ancient Menagerie Collection’ formerly the property of a Cambridgeshire lady, collected since the 1990s and acquired from auctions and dealers throughout Europe and the USA, now ex London collection. -
Roman Bronze Headstud Brooch
1st-2nd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £59
Displaying pale blue enamel panels to the shoulders, blue glass bead to the bow and elliptical lug to the footplate; partial remains of pin lug and catchplate. 18.7 grams, 56 mm
From an important Mayfair, London, UK collection, before 2012; item 2049.