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LOT 0940
Roman Gemstone Collection
1ST-2ND CENTURY A.D.
1/4 - 5/8 in. (2.66 grams total, 7-16 mm).
Mixed group including a standing female, a perching bird and others; each supplied with a museum-quality impression. [5]
ProvenanceFrom the collection of a gentleman, acquired on the London art market in the 1990s.
LiteratureCf. for similar gemstones Hoppal, K., 'Roman engraved gems from Southeast Asia' in Bartus D. (ed.), Dissertationes Archaeologicae ex Instituto Archaeologico Universitatis de Rolando Eotvos nominatae, Ser.3 No.9, Budapest, 2021, figs.1,2; 1,5; 2,2 and 2,5.
FootnotesTwo of the gemstones in this collection show cockerels. The motif of fighting or individual cockerels was very popular in the classical world, and individual cockerels (the animal often associated with gods, such as Mercury or Sol/Helios) were also often depicted in a standing position. Another gemstone appears to represent a nude figure of Dionysus/Bacchus draped in a long cloak, and another shows Helios with a radiate crown.
CONDITIONTimeLine Auctions follows a vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process
AUCTIONS:
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LOT 0940
Roman Gemstone Collection
Estimate £350 - 450€410 - 520 (for guidance only)$470 - 610 (for guidance only)
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Roman Glass Pendant with Lion's Head
2nd-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £39
An amber-coloured pendant with an impressed lion motif. 1.11 grams, 18.65 mm
From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s. -
Roman Bronze Horse Head Whorl Plate Brooch
3rd-4th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £208
With horse-head decoration to each arm, each head with punched ring-and-dot eye, and a similar motif to the centre; catchplate and hinged pin to verso. 14.2 grams, 40 mm
Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman. -
Eastern Roman Chalcedony Gemstone with Standing Figure
Circa 2nd-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £111
Plano-convex in section with incuse standing figure with arms raised, objects in the field, legend beside the lower leg. 1.88 grams, 15.98 mm
From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s.
