Roman Iron Ring with Eros Riding a Dolphin Gemstone

A copper-alloy zoomorphic plate brooch, in the shape of a deer with two legs, a short tail and a complete antler, characterised by a series of transverse grooves, the body of the animal with the inscription 'FLAINA' in Latin letters; pin lugs and remains of ferrous pin to the reverse. 11.5 grams, 41 mm



Acquire in the 1990s. Ex Cambridgeshire, UK, collection.

Roman fibulae came in a variety of shapes and embellishments. In the Roman Empire, the fibula was both functional and decorative, as men and women wore it to fasten their aprons and cloaks. A similar function was performed by pins intended to hold heavy garments such as cloaks. This type of fibulae were probably produced in Pannonia, from where they were exported around the Empire. Another centre of production of deer fIbulae was probably Roman Britannia.

An iron finger ring with inset burnt white stone cloison bearing intaglio of Eros riding a dolphin. 9.42 grams, 20.30 mm overall, 13.82 x 16.27 mm internal diameter (approximate size British H, USA 3 3/4, Europe 6.18, Japan 6)

Fine condition.

Acquired 1970's. Ex UK collection. Property of a Portsmouth, UK gentleman.

A pair of semi-naturalistic bronze statue heads modelled in the round: a female with hair held in a chignon at the nape; figure with hair dressed in short wavy tufts, large eyes with exaggerated eyelashes. 71 grams total, 23-25 mm



Acquired before 2000. From the collection of a European gentleman living in the UK.

Bronze statuettes of Roman work representing Roman gods and goddesses were widespread all around the empire, and are also known as far as archaeological sites of Jutland and the islands. The two heads represent probably tutela divinities of the home, like Vesta and Juno (Greek Hera).