Roman Glass Bead Necklace

With broad bowl featuring two spurs to the rim flanking the junction with the handle, carinated band below the rim, concentric rings to the base; flat-section handle with gussets to the edges and rear, hooked ibex-head finial. 147 grams, 25 cm



Acquired 1980-2015. Ex Abelita family collection.

Each protome composed of a gently tapering shallow octagonal body, the upper part formed as an eagle's head with semi-naturalistic hooked beak, eye and feather detailing, collar at the base of the neck decorated with crenelated borders; two upward curving arms terminating with stylised cobra heads; one with impact damage from a crash(?). 2.1 kg total, 13-13.7 cm

Regular green patina, in general very fine condition, except the broken head of one cobra.

Private collection, Rosenheim, Germany, 1960s. Accompanied by an academic report by Dr Raffaele D'Amato. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.11732-201194.

These chariot fittings were usually elements surmounting the axle, a sort of sheath allowing the suspension from the body of the cart to the wagon box using belts. The chariot (currus) which these fittings adorned may have been used for transporting wealthy and aristocratic individuals, although most probably it was a tensa, i.e. a triumphal chariot or a ceremonial vehicle upon which images and symbols of divinities were placed.

Composed of rings of various types and sizes, including bezels with decorative geometric, zoomorphic and enamelled designs. 75 grams total, 16-26 mm



Acquired on the German art market around 2000. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.