Romano-British Bronze Brooch with Maker’s Name ACUTI

Hollow-formed, no handle, but the rear bulging tubular part of the basin may have served as such; body in the shape of a comic theater mask with large open mouth; filling-hole on forehead, knit eyebrows with jolly expression and large open mouth functioning as a wick-hole; crown of foliage and fruits; flat raised oval base. 38 grams, 67 mm



From the collection of Mr W.A. Stewart, Director of School of Arts and Crafts, Cairo, 1919-1929. Acquired Christie's, London, Antiquities, Works of Art and Important Renaissance Bronzes, Plaquettes and Limoges Enamels, 8 July 1981, no.126 (part). From a private Wiltshire, UK, collection. Accompanied by a copy of the relevant Christie's catalogue page.

Lamps with figurines first appeared in the Hellenistic period, possibly originating in Athens, since the 2nd century B.C. Found in all parts of the Mediterranean basin, they were particularly popular during the 1st and 2nd centuries A.D. The Silenus face types were linked to the Bacchic cult. The crown of leaves and fruit across the forehead alludes to Bacchus or one of his followers.

Modelled in the round, holding a nut in its front paws, tail curled forming a loop. 8.72 grams, 24 mm



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

Including ribbed melon and other types. 9.36 grams total, 8-18 mm



From the private collection of the late Mr S.M., 1969-1999.