Silver-Coloured Metal Rings with Calligraphic Gems

Formed as a hand showing figa gesture, silver mount with applied twisted wires; attachment loop and ring to the top. 19.6 grams, 56 mm



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

Mano Fico, as protective amulets have been used since the ancient world, it was believed to protect from the evil eye and other dark and magical forces and to promote fertility. In ancient Rome, the fig sign, or mano fico, was made by the pater familias (father of the family) to ward off the evil spirits of the dead as a part of the Lemuria ritual. The ancient Greeks wore amulets of the gesture around the neck to protect from the evil eye, and also used the gesture in artwork. What they considered an overtly sexual gesture was expected to distract evil spirits from causing harm. The pendant would have been worn from a belt or from a chatelaine containing other protective talismans. This carving would have served as a token representing a person's pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela, one of the very few places in which jet can be found and mined since at least the Middle Ages.

Of academic interest, copper coated lead seal impressions taken from cylinder seals, including master of animals, courtly scenes and three with cuneiform text. 271 grams total, 34-49 mm



Possibly made by the British Museum. From a West Country, UK, private collection.

Central panel of triptych formed as a rectangular plaque of low-relief figure of Saint Nicholas flanked by smaller figures of Jesus and Mary to each side, a suspension hoop to each corner; upper panel with central image of trinity with cherubs and vernicle; remains of pale blue enamel. 47 grams, 90 mm



Ex Constable collection, 1990s. Ex P. Morris collection.