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LOT 0167
Roman Carnelian Gemstone with Gryllus in Gold Ring
2ND CENTURY A.D.
1 in. (9.29 grams, 23.83 mm overall, 20.32 x 17.88 mm internal diameter (approximate size British R 1/2, USA 8 3/4, Europe 19.38, Japan 18)).
Translucent oval intaglio featuring a standing gryllus wearing a gryphon-headed helmet, flanked by the inscription 'KAΛHI' meaning 'to the beautiful one'; set in a later gold ring with a D-section hoop; supplied with a museum-quality impression.
ProvenanceAcquired on the European art market.
This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.13322-257896.
Cf. Lapatin, K., 'Grylloi' in Entwistle, C., Adams, N., Gems of Heaven, recent research on engraved Gemstones in Late Antiquity, c. AD 200-600, London, 2011, pp.50-61, pls.88-98, for various examples of similar gemstones.
FootnotesFanciful combinations of various human and animal heads, sometimes with the addition of other elements, are generally called grylloi. These fantastic devices were more than mere artists' fancies and were worn by the ancient Romans and others for their supposed efficacy in averting the evil eye.
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AUCTIONS:
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LOT 0167
Roman Carnelian Gemstone with Gryllus in Gold Ring
Estimate £2,000 - 3,000€2,320 - 3,480 (for guidance only)$2,700 - 4,050 (for guidance only)
Opening Bid
£1,100 (EUR 1,276; USD 1,485) +BP*
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Roman Carnelian Gemstone with Bee
2nd-3rd century A.D.Estimate: £80 - 100 (+bp*)
Bids: 3 | Current Bid: £16
Discoid in plan with incuse bee motif, wings spread. 0.87 grams, 14 mm
Property of a European gentleman, acquired from the estate of a London collector (formed before 2000). -
Roman Bronze Intaglio with Bull's Head and Birds
3rd-4th century A.D.Estimate: £40 - 60 (+bp*)
Bids: 1 | Current Bid: £5
Discoid type with incuse design of a bull's head with a bird perched on each horn, ewer between; supplied with a museum-quality impression. 0.82 grams, 13 mm
From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s. -
Roman Bronze Ring with Glass Gem
Circa 3rd century A.D.Estimate: £40 - 60 (+bp*)
Bids: 1 | Current Bid: £5
With slender hoop and amphora-shaped shoulders, supporting a cell set with a clear 'aqua' glass cabochon. 2.00 grams, 21.92 mm overall, 17.81 x 15.28 mm internal diameter (approximate size British J, USA 4 33/4, Europe 8.69, Japan 8)
From the private collection of Mr Brian Edwards, New Malden, Surrey, UK, formed from the late 1970s-early 1980s; thence by descent. Accompanied by the original collector's data sheet(s) with reference no.A109.
