Roman 'St Albans' Bronze and Other Artefact Group

The hoop circular in plan and rectangular in cross-section, the sides divide into two segments which separate gradually to form triangular shoulders, on one of the shoulders applied scallop shells with one replaced, four pellets to the base of the bezel; the deep tubular bezel and everted rim decorated with radiating lines, reset with a cabochon garnet. 4.57 grams, 22.24 mm overall, 14.67 mm internal diameter (approximate size British F, USA 2 3/4, Europe 3.67, Japan 3)



Found whilst searching with a metal detector near Great Chart with Singleton, near Ashford, Kent, UK, by Mr Keith Collins on Thursday 5th November 2020. Accompanied by a copy of the British Museum's Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) report with record no.KENT-2D4C88. Accompanied by a copy of the British Museum's report on a find of potential treasure for H M Coroner with Treasure reference 2021T808, subsequently disclaimed.

Roman rings with circular hoops are categorised by Guiraud (1998) in her typology as Type 4, those with tubular bezels Types 4a- 4d, Type 4c is shown flanked by two pairs of spherical pellets, and with decorative shoulders (p.189, fig.29), however our example is more consistent with Type 4h.

The rectangular stele modelled in the half-round representing a banqueting scene with elaborate couch and reclining character; the couch with banded and padded platform, rounded cushion with bands of ornament; the figure depicting a young noble wearing a male Palmyrene costume with band of scrolled foliage ornament, hair dressed into braided tresses and wound round the brow; left arm supporting the body on the cushion, right hand placed before the chest holding the handle of a footed kylix; rectangular border; mounted on a custom-made stand; head restored. 11.2 kg total, 46 cm including stand



Ex P.A., Hertfordshire, UK, specialist collection of Greek art, 1980-1990s.

The character shows a typical male in Palmyrene costume, with long sleeved tunic and large central band, decorated with interlaced vegetal embroidery. Its position is typical of the so-called 'banquet' reliefs. The belt is also decidedly masculine. The sculpture, originally headless, was probably reworked in the upper part, with the addition of a female head incompatible with the rest of the body.

Restrung using alternating barrel-shaped beads with smaller oblate beads. 24 grams, 45 cm long



UK gallery, early 2000s.