Roman Key with Chain

A bronze figure of Silenus standing nude with vine-leaf wreath on the brow, muscular physique, dressed beard and stern facial expression, holding a bunch of grapes in the left hand; accompanied by a custom-made display stand. 104 grams, 65 mm high (127 grams total, 71 mm high including stand)



Private Swiss collection, acquired 2001. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.11621-199008.

Silenus was closely associated with the Dionysian cult. He was a deity associated with the forest, wine, drunkenness, the treading-dance of the wine press an orgiastic ritual. Whilst intoxicated, Silenus was belied to possess the power of prophecy. He helped raise the god Dionysus, son of Zeus, after he was entrusted to him by Hermes. Once, whilst travelling with Dionysus through Phrygia, Silenus was captured by king Midas who treated his captive hospitably. As a reward, Dionysus granted the king his famous 'golden touch'. The sacred animal of Silenus is the donkey, the mode of transport he often used according to Greek mythology.

A mixed group of over 100 single stone tesserae of various colours and sizes. 70 grams total, 5-14 mm



Acquired 1980-2015. Ex Abelita family collection.

A mixed group of copper-alloy finger rings of various types, each bearing an incuse design to the bezel: a stylised bird; a cross; a stylised fish; a geometric motif and possible horse and rider. 25 grams total, 20-25 mm



Early 1990s London collection. Acquired on the UK art market. From a private collection, Lancashire, UK.