Roman Terracotta Oil Lamp

Discoid clay mould with an impressed design of a coin on each face, one side with a radiate profile bust. 4.26 grams, 28 mm



London gentleman's collection, 1970-1990s, by descent.

Carved in a gripping position, semi-naturalistic detailing to the knuckles and nail beds, clenched around a shaft, a spear, or possibly a scroll. 83.7 grams, 61 mm



From a private collection formed 2000s. Acquired at auction in the UK.

Ellipsoid in plan with an engraved scene of a cockerel copulating with a hen, inscription above. 0.62 grams, 14 mm



Property of a European gentleman, acquired from the estate of a London collector (formed before 2000).

In ancient Rome, a cockerel, Latin gallus, was a symbol of virility and fertility. But gallus (plural galli) was also the term for a religious devotee and later for a priest of Cybele (Magna Mater). Often eunuchs, they performed ecstatic dances and rituals, sometimes even engaging in sexual acts as part of their religious practices. In Rome, the head of the Cybele priests was the archigallus, chosen by the quindecimviri sacris faciundis. Reliefs show that the archigallus was wearing luxurious and extravagant costumes and jewellery. This unique gemstone can be attributed to such an archigallus. The cult of Cybele/Magna Mater and the presence of galli also spread to Roman Britain, where it is attested, e.g. in Catterick and Corbridge.