Loading, please wait...
LOT 0092
Roman Gemstone with Zeus Serapis and Isis
2ND-3RD CENTURY A.D. OR LATER
3/8 in. (0.28 grams, 10 mm).
A gem with a representation of Zeus Serapis enthroned, modius on his head, sceptre and eagle by his side, Isis Gubernatrix to his right and Isis sail-bearer to his left, all three figures riding a galley or cargo ship.
ProvenanceAcquired before 1988.
Ex family collection, by descent, Geneva.
Cf. Bricault, L., Isis Pelagia: Images, Names and Cults of a Goddess of the Seas, Leiden-Boston, 2020, figs. 75, 78, 80, for similar gemstones.
FootnotesThis triad formed by Serapis and the two aspects of Isis (Gubernatrix and sail-bearer) aboard a ship, appears in several examples of Alexandrian coinage and gemstones. This imagery is linked to the image of Isis, goddess of the sea, and Serapis, god of vegetation and protector of the sailors.
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:
TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.
-
Roman Silver Horse Brooch
2nd-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £390
A silver plate brooch formed as a profile horse with arched neck, notched mane, incised panels to the neck and flank with ring-and-dot ornament; pin-lugs and catch to the reverse. 7.17 grams, 35 mm
Acquired in the late 1990s-2000. Property of an East London gentleman. -
Roman Mount with Flavian Emperor
Late 1st century A.D.Estimate: £300 - 400 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £150
A copper-alloy appliqué protome in the form of the Flavian Emperor Vespasian, frontal bust in half relief, wearing an exomis leaving his right shoulder uncovered, solid suspension ring to the top of the head. 52.3 grams, 60 mm
Acquired 1969-1999. London collection of the late Mr S.M., thence by descent.
The realism in the details is remarkable and was achieved through fine modelling. This protome was perhaps set in a medallion to decorate the lower terminal of a fulcrum, an S-shaped couch attachment almost always made of metal which was fastened to the side of a wooden headboard to serve as an elbow-rest on a couch (kline). -
Roman Iridescent Glass Vase with Chequered Pattern
1st-4th century A.D.Estimate: £300 - 400 (‡+bp*)
Opening Bid: £150
A glass vase with a rounded body decorated with a lozenge 'net' motif, broad flared neck, kick-up to base; extensive iridescence, repaired. 49 grams, 11 cm high
Acquired early 1990s. Ex private American collection; thence by descent. Private collection since 1998.
