Roman Style Seated Putti

A gold posy ring with D-section band, inscribed internally with 'More assured then professed' with long S's in lower case with small foliate scroll after. 2.42 grams, 18.46 mm overall, 16.65 mm internal diameter (approximate size British L, USA 5 3/4, Europe 11.24, Japan 10)



Acquired on the UK antiques market between 1974-1985. Albert Ward collection, Essex, UK.

A bifacial bronze Yämäṩor Mäsqäl processional cross finial with later replaced socket, flanking bird motifs and dense block of tendrils and wheels with seven cross-shaped finials, central panel with Virgin Mary, Holy Child and angels to the front, saints and Evangelists to the back. 55 grams, 26 cm (37.5 cm including stand)



Acquired on the London art market, 2006. UK private collection.

In contrast with the hand cross that is fitted with a grip, the processional cross has a hollow shaft into which the pole supporting the cross is inserted, although the use of both is interconnected in the liturgy and ceremonial aspects of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. In Amharic it received the name of yämäṩor mäsqäl or "cross to [carry] on a pole", the term mäṩor also meaning a wooden handle. Processional crosses are used on "every qaddase day" occasions - an expression meaning whenever the liturgy is performed. This includes displaying the cross during the reading of the Gospels and other sacred texts, as well as holding it up to be viewed at the end of the service for the final blessing.

A white marble copy of the famous Venus of Milo, naturalistically portrayed with her garment having fallen from her shoulders, hanging loose at her waist and exposing her breasts. 34.8 kg, 77 cm high



French collection, 1960s-early 2000s. From an important Paris gallery, France.

Aphrodite of Milos, better known as the Venus of Milo, is an ancient Greek statue and one of the most famous works of ancient Greek sculpture known today, created between 130-100 years B.C. The original is currently displayed at the Louvre in Paris.