Very Large Roman Stone Gaming Dice

Comprising a ring handle, filling-hole and air hole in lower discus; the discus with a horse advancing left mounted by a cavalryman with a flying cloak. 44 grams, 73 mm



From a collection acquired on the UK art market from various auction houses and collections mostly before 2000. From an important Cambridgeshire estate; thence by descent.

The main charateristic of the type (Bussiere form D I 3) is the form of the nozzle, which is tangent to the lamp rim (nozzle form Bussiere 3).

With raised central boss and peripheral discs with red enamel alternating with openwork loops; the body with a double band of blue, white and red enamelling, separated by ropework bands; remains of pin hinge and catchplate to the reverse; accompanied by a custom-made display stand. 61 grams total, 56 mm including stand



From a private New Jersey collection, 1960-1985. with Artemis Gallery, Colorado, USA, 8 March 2016, no.45. Private American collection, New York, USA.

A similar brooch is preserved in the Colchester Museum, and similarly decorated brooch discs are visible in the British Museum and have been found in Chesterholm, Vindolanda and Chepstow. It is a Roman provincial type used by military personnel and their families.

Group of two penannular bracelets, each with a round-section shank, cross-hatched finials. 27.6 grams total, 60-62 mm



Private collection, Arundel, West Sussex, UK, 1975-late 1990s.