Roman Carnelian Gemstone with Minerva

Modelled in the round, sitting nude with head turned, arms and legs bent; wearing a brimmed cap with a feather in the crown; the spine and sternum modelled protruding, large, impressed eyes, genitals protruding below the crossed legs. 130 grams, 93 mm



Acquired from Helios Ancient Art, Mayfair, London, UK, circa 1986. From a privately held London, UK, collection from the 1980s-1990s. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.13276-253965.

Such small bronzes with physical abnormalities and exaggerated features served as entertainment, but also had the function of warding off evil.

Bulbous body and rounded underside, long neck, trumpet-shaped mouth with applied rim, applied strap handle with ribbing. 40 grams, 96 mm



Acquired in the 1992. Private collection, Switzerland, thence by descent. Private collection, since the late 1990s.

Roman glass from the 2nd to 4th century A.D. gives a fascinating insight into everyday life in the Roman Empire. By this time, glassmaking had become highly skilled, and glass vessels were being produced on a much larger scale than before. Thanks to the development of glassblowing, makers were able to create practical as well as attractive objects such as bottles, flasks, jars, and drinking vessels. Much of the glass from this period has a soft blue-green tint, caused by natural elements in the raw materials. Although some pieces were finely decorated, many were made for ordinary daily use, showing how glass had become far more common and accessible across Roman society.

Comprising three rings with decorative bezels. 6.27 grams total, 15-16 mm



Acquired Town Hall Antiques, Market Place, Woburn, Bedfordshire, UK, on 9th March 1999. Property of a West Northamptonshire, UK, gentleman. Accompanied by the original Town Hall Antiques invoice.