Villanovan Bronze Lunate Razor

Group of four graduated ceramic cups, each with two loop handles to the rim and painted detailing to the outer face. 103 grams total, 6.5-10.1 cm



Acquired from Gallery Gryphos, Munich, early 2000s. European private collection.

On a set-off ring foot with long cylindrical neck and funnel-shaped rim; the body with net-pattern decoration in umber, highlighted with white dots at the junctions, framed by brown bands above and below; handle, spout and the outside of the ring foot also in brown; from Apulian Greek colonies of southern Italy, surface chip to the body, usage wear. 156 grams, 14.3 cm



From a Swiss collection, since at least 1978. Ex Swiss collection, Mr. P.B. Basel-Landschaft, acquired on the Swiss art market.

Modelled standing barefoot on an irregular base, wearing an ankle-length chlamys over a short-sleeved tunic; the left arm supporting a bunch of grapes, the right hand with a patera; the hair and beard neatly dressed; mounted on a custom-made stand. 279 grams total, 14 cm including stand



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. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.12317-214667.

Lares were supernatural guardians revered in ancient Roman, the cult probably adapted from an Etruscan predecessor; the word lar derives from Etruscan larth - a leader or overlord. They were believed to guard the family's wealth and look after their health and wellbeing. An offering-plate is usually modelled in one of the figure's hands, onto which small libations could be made. They were usually worshipped in groups, but offerings to individuals are also known.