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LOT 0173
Roman Mercury Gemstone
CIRCA 2ND CENTURY A.D.
5/8 in. (1.73 grams, 18 mm).
With intaglio figure of Mercury seated on a throne with coin-purse and caduceus, on a baseline; supplied with a museum-quality impression.
ProvenanceFrom the collection of a Swiss gentleman formed in Europe from 1970-1980s; thence by descent from the family in London.
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:
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Roman Vase Intaglio Gemstone
Circa 2nd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £195
Carnelian with intaglio vase with vegetation cascading to each side; supplied with a museum-quality impression. 0.64 grams, 10 mm
From the collection of a Swiss gentleman formed in Europe from 1970-1980s; thence by descent from the family in London. -
Roman and Other Glass and Stone Bead Group
1st millennium B.C. and laterSold for (Inc. bp): £234
Comprising a large quantity of beads, mainly oblate and cylindrical in form. 54.1 grams total, 1-10 mm
UK gallery, early 2000s. -
Roman Gold Ring with Banded Glass
1st century B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £910
Hollow-formed with ellipsoid bezel, inset panel of banded iridescent glass bearing an image of a nude Greek hero with long hair, the head turned back, carrying branches, an amphora or jug at his feet. 1.18 grams, 18.29 mm overall, 15.66 mm internal diameter (approximate size British G, USA 3 1/4, Europe 4.92, Japan 4)
Acquired early 1990s. Ex private American collection; thence by descent. Private Swiss collection since 1998.
The inset glass bezel is probably archaic Greek or Etruscan and reused in Roman times. The traits of the man point to Archaic Hellenic features, especially the oval eyes and the long hair, and the pointed beard reminiscence of the Achaean heroes.