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LOT 0118
Roman Carnelian Gemstone with Eros Harassing a Bird in a Tree
1ST-3RD CENTURY A.D.
1/2 in. (0.56 grams, 14 mm).
The oval intaglio engraved with nude Eros, holding a fowling-rod, approaching a tree with a bird, a line marking the ground.
ProvenanceAcquired in the late 1980s-early 1990s.
Important North West London collection.
Cf. for similar see British Museum, accession no. 1923.0401.486, in Walters, H.B., Catalogue of Engraved Gems & Cameos, Greek, Etruscan & Roman in the British Museum, London, 1926, no.2869.
FootnotesDoves are a typical attribute of Aphrodite, and real birds were often given to women as love-tokens; this bezel was possibly destined to a ring used for this purpose. At the same time, the presence of Eros was presumably intended to enhance the wearer’s personal allure.
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AUCTIONS:
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LOT 0118
Roman Carnelian Gemstone with Eros Harassing a Bird in a Tree
Estimate £600 - 800€700 - 930 (for guidance only)$810 - 1,080 (for guidance only)
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Roman Bronze Lion Patera Handle Fitting
2nd-3rd century A.D.Estimate: £800 - 1,000 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £444
Displaying a naturalistic lion's head projecting from a facetted bar with piercing for attachment; recessed eyes to accept separate inserts. 100 grams, 88 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 Fish Vessel Lid
1st-4th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £455
Modelled in the half-round with naturalistic detailing, between the tail a hinge loop, probably the lid from a high status fish-shaped vessel. 44 grams, 75 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 and Other Mixed Bead Group
1st millennium A.D. and laterSold for (Inc. bp): £91
Comprising a range of bead types in different materials, including decorated examples. 93 grams total, 3-29 mm
Acquired on the UK art market. Property of a Ruislip, UK, gentleman, by inheritance.
