Very Large Uzbek Bed or Table Cover

Of academic interest, copper coated lead seal impressions taken from cylinder seals showing different scenes, including two with cuneiform text. 438 grams total, 49-57 mm



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

Comprising interlinking flat loops with pierced spacers decorated with Renaissance motifs, winged telamon and ‘jewels’; sturdy hook-and-eye closure. 110 grams, 49 cm



Private collection, Europe. Acquired on the English art market. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.13154-248389.

Such chains were known as a 'Sivlonot' in German Jewish tradition dating from the 16th century, in a custom whereby silver or gold chains were sent as a gift by the bridegroom to his future bride. They were worn under the bridal canopy and throughout the following week, then often brought out again for holidays and ceremonial occasions.

Discoid in plan with lip to underside, central low-relief motif of a laureate and draped Roman-style bust with a nimbate lion of St. Mark, within a band inscribed 'TERIACA F ALLA TESTA DORO IN VENET'; all within outer band containing laurel wreath. 31 grams, 45 mm



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

Theriaca or ‘Venice treacle’ was a medicinal compound used since the time of Mithradates VI of Pontus as an antidote against any poisonous bite.