Roman Deep Blue Glass and Other Bead Necklace String

Comprising: one with ring-and-dot markings disposed 1:6, 2:5, 3:4; the other a cornerless cuboid with hatching to the corners, and markings disposed in a similar way. 2.31 grams total, 7-9 mm



UK private collection. Acquired from Redhouse Antiques, York, in 2006. Property of a Nottinghamshire gentleman.

The rectangular stele modelled in the half-round representing a banqueting scene with elaborate couch and reclining character; the couch with banded and padded platform, rounded cushion with bands of ornament; the figure depicting a young noble wearing a male Palmyrene costume with band of scrolled foliage ornament, hair dressed into braided tresses and wound round the brow; left arm supporting the body on the cushion, right hand placed before the chest holding the handle of a footed kylix; rectangular border; mounted on a custom-made stand; head restored. 11.2 kg total, 46 cm including stand



Ex P.A., Hertfordshire, UK, specialist collection of Greek art, 1980-1990s.

The character shows a typical male in Palmyrene costume, with long sleeved tunic and large central band, decorated with interlaced vegetal embroidery. Its position is typical of the so-called 'banquet' reliefs. The belt is also decidedly masculine. The sculpture, originally headless, was probably reworked in the upper part, with the addition of a female head incompatible with the rest of the body.

With facetted angled shoulders, small plaque with inset carnelian intaglio of a dolphin with raised tail. 3.15 grams, 24.52 mm overall, 18.01 mm internal diameter (approximate size British O 1/2, USA 7 1/4, Europe 15.61, Japan 15)



Acquired on the German art market before 2000. Property of a Surrey, UK, collector.