Roman Tall Glass Flask

Mixed group including a standing female, a perching bird and others; each supplied with a museum-quality impression. 2.66 grams total, 7-16 mm



From the collection of a gentleman, acquired on the London art market in the 1990s.

Two of the gemstones in this collection show cockerels. The motif of fighting or individual cockerels was very popular in the classical world, and individual cockerels (the animal often associated with gods, such as Mercury or Sol/Helios) were also often depicted in a standing position. Another gemstone appears to represent a nude figure of Dionysos/Bacchus draped in a long cloak, and another shows Helios with a radiate crown.

Comprising a D-section hoop with notched shoulders, a raised circular bezel with a stylised warrior. 5.19 grams, 20.44 mm overall, 15.11 mm internal diameter (approximate size British G 1/2, USA 3 1/2, Europe 5.55, Japan 5)



Acquired on the UK and EU art market before 2000. From the private collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.

The small copper alloy Roman finger ring seems to be of Guiraud Type 4f (similar to Henig Type II) and dates from the 3rd to early 5th century A.D. The size of the ring suggests it may have been worn on the end of the finger, but most probably used by a child.

The hoop octagonal in section with a cell to the bezel and an inset conical jasper stone, intaglio vessel and dolphin with attributes; some restoration and polishing; supplied with a museum-quality impression. 5.39 grams, 21.00 mm overall, 15.51 x 13.97 mm internal diameter (approximate size British J, USA 4 3/4, Europe 8.69, Japan 8)



Private collection, Europe. Acquired on the English art market.