Loading, please wait...
LOT 0123
Roman Haematite Magical Gemstone
2ND-4TH CENTURY A.D.
1 in. (2.84 grams, 24 mm).
Ellipsoid in plan with chamfered rim to obverse with womb with key and roots; above womb the figures of Isis, Anubis, Chnoubis, and Nephthys (from left to right); reverse with facing Medusa mask with wings to the brow below a coiled snake, spiders and other items.
ProvenanceFrom the collection of magical objects of the late Mr A. Cotton, Brockenhurst, Hampshire, UK.
This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.12354-225280.
Cf. similar item in Gordon, R., 'Archaeologies of Magical Gems' in Entwistle, C., Adams, N., Gems of Heaven, recent research on engraved Gemstones in Late Antiquity, c. AD 200-600, London, 2011, pp.39-49, pl.5; see also BM inv.no.EA56076, for similar gemstone.
FootnotesDuring the Graeco-Roman period, the traditional genres of Egyptian or Near Eastern temple magic gems, particularly protective magic against demons, snakes and scorpions, seemed largely to have disappeared, and new genres became dominant, for different types of divination (direct visions of god, bowl divination, dream sending, Homer oracles), malign magic, aggressive (mainly erotic) magic, magic for personal success and attractiveness. This type of amulet was intended to aid childbirth and avoid illness and dangers for its attendant.
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.
LOT 0123
Roman Haematite Magical Gemstone
Estimate £2,000 - 3,000€2,320 - 3,480 (for guidance only)$2,700 - 4,050 (for guidance only)
-
Late Roman Gold Ring with Garnet Intaglio Depicting a Male Portrait
5th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £2,860
Slender hoop with granules flanking a cup bezel, inset garnet cloison with intaglio profile male bust; supplied with a museum-quality impression. 4.01 grams, 26.03 mm overall, 17.16 mm internal diameter (approximate size British N, USA 6 1/2, Europe 13.72, Japan 13)
Acquired on the German art market, 1989-1995. with The Museum Gallery, 19 Bury Place, London, WC1, UK, 1998-2003. Property of a London based academic, 2003 to present. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by a search certificate number no.12390-226044. -
Roman Terracotta Oil Lamp with Tauroctony
2nd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £468
Squat lamp with broad discus and segmented shoulder, ribbed upper face to nozzle, pierced lug handle; discus with low-relief image of Mithras grappling the bull. 138 grams, 12 cm
From the private collection of Mr K.A., acquired in the 1990s-early 2000s. -
Roman Inlaid Votive Glass Amphora
1st-4th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £130
Squat jar with domed foot, deep carinated shoulder, low mouth, two applied trail handles; inlaid zigzag trails to shoulder; repaired. 74 grams, 54 mm
From a Scottish private collection, Perthshire, 1990s.
