Western Asiatic Style Lapis Lazuli Bead Necklace String

Comprising: two castings from moulds taken from a medieval seal, possibly of Edward I, set in plaster in a wooden frame: the smaller with a facing mask in a boat surmounted by a cross, the larger with a seated figure holding orb and sceptre within a lancet arch with a heater shield below. 165 grams total, 34-79 mm



From the collection of a West London, UK, collector.

Comprising a rectangular-section body pierced longitudinally with knop finial; lateral bowed arms with scrolled ends rising to the level of the knop and similar flared below; panels of arabesque tendril ornament to both flat faces and to the lateral arms; damaged. 42.9 grams, 38 mm



From an English private collection, 1980s. Property of a London, UK, antiquarian.

There seems to be a good argument for this pommel to be part of the French group of crusader pommels in the Metropolitan Museum of Art and in the University of Chicago, which date to the 12th-13th century A.D. This object has parallels with this group in terms of its crude manufacture, type of enamel, and overall style, as well as the fleur in scallop shape, which is almost identical to the lobes found on many of the circular sword pommels of this group.

Of tapering cylindrical form, extensively decorated in red, white, green and blue enamel in a foliate and floral design with scalloped borders, plain suspension loop; in 23 carat gold, unmarked, enamel restored; possibly of Indian workmanship. 4.84 grams, 42 mm



By repute found in the UK. Acquired Noonan's, London, UK, 15 September 2020, no.202. Property of a British collector. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.12997-244313.

The enamelling is similar to Indian enamelled works from the Mughal period, all of which are rare, and these are regarded as gifts for a royal child. This whistle, however, is reported as originally being found in the UK and may be earlier in date.