Roman Fresco Painted Wall Plaster Collection

The monogram in Latin letters, ('R'+'M'+'A', with the 'O' represented by the circular plan of the brooch itself), a palindrome 'AMOR'; complete with pin. 10 grams, 35 mm



From the collection of Alan Hardcastle. Ex private Merseyside, UK, collection.

The brooch is composed of the stylised letters ‘RMA’. When viewed from the obverse RMA + the circle of the brooch form a monogram for ‘Roma’. Roma refers to both the city and its divine personification, the Dea Roma. But if RMA is read from right to left (or the brooch is viewed from the opposite side), the letters display a monogram for ‘AMOR’, the Latin name for Cupid, the god of love. The phrase pertains to Roma-Amor, a widely recognised palindrome espousing Roman wordplay in the ancient times.

Formed with stub wings, a hooked beak and circular eyes, tail folded under the body,tail feathers and a speckled or ruffled breast underlined by moulded textures; iron loop embedded in the reverse face. 700 grams, 11.2 cm



Ex Nigel Mills, London, UK.

The iron loop of the back may suggest this was attached to a vessel or other receptacle. Greek mythology associated the small white bird with Aphrodite, the goddess of love (known in Roman mythology as Venus). Venus is often depicted with doves fluttering around her or resting on her hand.

Modelled in the round with naturalistic detailing to the head and face, sitting with head turned slightly to the left. 38.7 grams, 37 mm wide



‘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.