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LOT 0156
Roman Nicolo Gemstone with Theseus Holding Sword
3RD CENTURY A.D.
1/2 in. (1.08 grams, 15 mm).
The oval intaglio with nude youthful Theseus to left, holding a sword in sheath with belt for attachment.
ProvenanceAcquired in the late 1980s-early 1990s.
Important North West London collection.
Cf. Walters, H.B., Catalogue of Engraved Gems & Cameos, Greek, Etruscan & Roman in the British Museum, London, 1926, no.1909, for similar.
FootnotesTheseus was one of the greatest and most popular heroes of Greek mythology and is closely associated with the city-state of Athens. Theseus is also known for many other adventures: however, he is more famous for slaying the Minotaur at the Labyrinth of Crete.
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AUCTIONS:
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LOT 0156
Roman Nicolo Gemstone with Theseus Holding Sword
Estimate £800 - 1,000€930 - 1,160 (for guidance only)$1,080 - 1,350 (for guidance only)
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Roman Silver Standing Bull Statuette
1st-4th century A.D.Estimate: £150 - 200 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £83
Modelled in the round standing facing, displaying anatomical detailing. 15.7 grams, 32 mm
‘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. -
Roman Bronze Bearded Philosopher Mount
Circa 2nd-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £65
Displaying the bald pate and bearded face of a Roman intellectual in profile right. 3.33 grams, 25 mm
Found Essex, UK, before 2010. -
Roman Carnelian Gemstone with Demeter Holding Ear of Corn
1st-2nd century A.D.Estimate: £500 - 700 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £278
Set in a silver mount with beaded edge; the intaglio depicting Demeter draped, advancing left and holding ear of corns in her right hand. 2.21 grams, 19 mm
Acquired in the late 1980s-early 1990s. Important North West London collection.
Demeter and Hecate were linked to the afterlife cult, so it is possible that the ring to which the bezel belonged was a funerary gift. Demeter (Ceres for the Romans) was the Greek goddess of the harvest, the cycle of life and death and sacred law.
