Roman Golden Amber Glass Unguentarium

Comprising a figural scene in relief composed of a mounted rider (Dioscuros) advancing left towards the figure of Helen of Troy, a worshipper behind his horse and another beneath it in the attitude of submission; the sun and the moon above. 91 grams, 83 mm



Acquired early 1990s. From an East Anglian private collection.

The image of Sol Invictus assumed a great importance in the Danubian cult: the frequent representation of the celestial gods on the plaques is paralleled by their representation on monuments of other mystery cults, particularly the cult of Mithras. The image of a Dioscuros on horseback is linked to that of the Danubian rider.

Modelled standing in the round with naturalistic detailing, curled horns and standing on a rectangular base. 73 grams, 45 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.

Modelled in the round, the neck with small engraved lines indicating mane, narrow body, short tail, the forelegs forming the pin’s catch. 10.8 grams, 31 mm



Acquired on the UK art market. Property of a Ruislip, UK, gentleman, by inheritance.

The style of the animal is typical of the Pannonian area. It is different from similar fibulae in the western part of the empire, where there is more suggestion of movement. However, in general the head and body are modelled with realism, and the forelegs are acting as a wide flat catch-plate.