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Click here to subscribe6th Battalion East Surrey Regiment Cap Badge, blackened brass example with slider fitting to the reverse. Accompanied by a small pattern bronze 7th Queens Own Hussars forage cap badge by Firmin with two lug fittings, three piece white metal Seaforth Highlanders bonnet badge and 5x tunic buttons of Cinque Ports Royal Sussex Regiment interest (8 items)
Third Reich SS 8 Year Long Service Medal, in bronze with tear drop loop and blue ribbon; Kriegsmarine U-Boat war badge with pin back fixing; enamel Golden Party badge with pin and hook fixing and a German Waffen-SS ring. We believe all to be post war representations and sold as such. (4 items)
Artist: Roy Lichtenstein (American, 1923-1997). Title: "Cup and Saucer II [medium version]". Medium: Color offset lithograph. Date: Composed 1977. Printed 1989. Dimensions: Overall size: 38 3/8 x 25 1/2 in. (975 x 648 mm).Lot Note(s): Signed in pencil, lower right. Edition c1,000. Heavy, smooth, light cream wove paper. Full margins. Fine impression. Fine contition. Literature/catalogue raisonne: Unknown to Doering/Von der Osten. Comment(s): A scarce poster. ‘Gordon’s Art Reference’ lists only two sales in this size. According to ‘Gordon’s’ the last sale of a signed impression was $500 at Treadway Toomey Auctions (20th Century Art & Design), 03/08/14, lot #759. For the exhibition ‘Roy Lichtenstein: Bronze Sculpture 1976-1989’ at the Sixty-Five Thompson Street gallery, New York City, held May 19 to July 1, 1989. Image copyright © Estate of Roy Lichtenstein. [28954-6-225]
1200-800 BC, Greek Archaic Period. Ttanged bronze spearhead comprising a small leaf-shaped blade with a raised midrib, short neck and a beautiful green patina. Bronze weaponry production flourished in western Asia, the Aegean, and Mainland Greece from the 2nd millennium BC to about 700 BC, when it was gradually replaced by iron. Swords, spears, and arrows were important symbols of war in Greek Bronze Age societies and served as powerful reminders that authority rested in the hands of those who could earn it. Superb condition. Size: L:180mm; 44g. Provenance: Private London collection, formed in the 1980s on the UK and European art market.
C. 1200 BC – 500 BC. Hallstatt culture. A socketed bronze spearhead comprising a small leaf-shaped blade with a raised midrib, short neck and a beautiful green patina. Bronze weaponry production flourished in the Hallstatt culture from the 1200 BC – 500 BC. Swords, spears, and arrows were important symbols of war in Hallstatt society and served as powerful reminders that authority rested in the hands of those who could earn it. Good condition.Size: L:110mm; 59g. Provenance: From the private collection of an Essex gentleman; previously in an old British Collection, formed before 2000.
c. 1000-1300 AD. Medieval. A mixed lot of five arrowheads (from left to right); 1) triangular arrowhead with rounded shoulders and tang; 2) Narrow, leaf-shaped arrowhead with slight shoulders narrowing into the tang; 3) Elongated triangular arrowhead with rounded shoulders and tang; 4) triangular arrowhead with elongated point and tang; 5) Small leaf-shaped arrowhead with tang. Arrows were a key part of medieval society both as instruments of war but also as weapons for hunting. One of the most evocative images of arrows as weapons of war appears on the Bayeux Tapestry, where King Harold is depicted after taking an arrow to the eye, leading to the Norman victory at the Battle of Hastings in 1066 AD. For further information on arrowheads, see C. Rau (2017) European Arrowheads and Crossbow Bolts: From the Bronze Age to the Late Middle Ages. Fair condition. Size: L:48-132mm; 78g. Provenance: Property of a London gallery, previously in old British collection formed in the 1980s.
1200-800 BC, Greek Archaic Period. A tanged bronze spearhead comprising a leaf-shaped blade with a large raised midrib, flanked by two smaller raised ribs on either side. This rare spear head has beautiful incised, concentric chevrons on its neck and is made even more grand by its stunning green patina. Bronze weaponry production flourished in western Asia, the Aegean, and Mainland Greece from the 2nd millennium BC to about 700 BC, when it was gradually replaced by iron. Swords, spears, and arrows were important symbols of war in Greek Bronze Age societies and served as powerful reminders that authority rested in the hands of those who could earn it. Superb condition. Size: L:380mm; 410g. Provenance: Property of an established London gallery; acquired from a private estate collection formed before 2000.
1200-800 BC, Greek Archaic Period. A bronze dagger with a pointed, tapering, bevelled blade and a short tang with a perforation for affixing the blade to a handle. This item is mounted on a stand. Bronze weaponry production flourished in western Asia, the Aegean, and Mainland Greece from the 2nd millennium BC to about 700 BC, when it was gradually replaced by iron. Swords, spears, and arrows were important symbols of war in Greek Bronze Age societies and served as powerful reminders that authority rested in the hands of those who could earn it. Superb condition. Size: L:390mm; 330g. Provenance: Property of a North London gentleman; previously acquire on the UK/European art market in the 1980s;
1200-800 BC, Greek Archaic Period. A tanged bronze spearhead comprising a lozenge-shaped blade with a raised midrib, short neck and a beautiful green patina. Bronze weaponry production flourished in western Asia, the Aegean, and Mainland Greece from the 2nd millennium BC to about 700 BC, when it was gradually replaced by iron. Swords, spears, and arrows were important symbols of war in Greek Bronze Age societies and served as powerful reminders that authority rested in the hands of those who could earn it. Good condition. Size: L:95mm; 70g. Provenance: Property of a West London gentleman; previously in a collection formed on the UK/International art market in the 1990s.
1200-800 BC, Greek Archaic Period. A tanged bronze spearhead comprising a long triangular blade with a raised midrib, short neck and a beautiful green patina. Bronze weaponry production flourished in western Asia, the Aegean, and Mainland Greece from the 2nd millennium BC to about 700 BC, when it was gradually replaced by iron. Swords, spears, and arrows were important symbols of war in Greek Bronze Age societies and served as powerful reminders that authority rested in the hands of those who could earn it. Good condition. Size: L:155mm; 25g. Provenance: Property of a West London gentleman; previously in a collection formed on the UK/International art market before 2000.
1200-800 BC, Greek Archaic Period. A tanged bronze spearhead comprising a long triangular blade with a raised midrib, short neck and a beautiful green patina. This item is mounted on a stand. Bronze weaponry production flourished in western Asia, the Aegean, and Mainland Greece from the 2nd millennium BC to about 700 BC, when it was gradually replaced by iron. Swords, spears, and arrows were important symbols of war in Greek Bronze Age societies and served as powerful reminders that authority rested in the hands of those who could earn it. Good condition. Size: L:165mm; 35g. Provenance: Property of a West London gentleman; previously in a collection formed on the UK/International art market in the 1980s.
C. 2000-1000 BC, Bronze Age. Bronze double-headed axe with elongated, vertical blade to the front and flattened, horizontal blade to the rear. Bronze weaponry production flourished in Europe from the 3000 BC – 1200 BC, when it was gradually replaced by iron over the following 500 years. Swords, axes, spears, and arrows were important symbols of war in Bronze Age societies and served as powerful reminders that authority rested in the hands of those who could earn it. Superb condition; on a custom-made stand. Size: H:145mm/L:230mm/H:100mm (without stand); 31g. Provenance: Property of a London gallery, previously in old British collection formed in the 1980s.
C. 2000-700 BC, Luristan Culture. This beautiful cast bronze sword has a tapering, bevelled blade and a recessed integral handle that would have been inset with stone, bone or ivory inlay. Bronze weaponry production flourished from the 2nd millennium BC to about 700BC when it was gradually replaced by iron. Swords, spears and arrows were exchanged via trade and war and are discovered in both civic and ritual context. A sword such as this one would have been an important symbol of rank, and power beyond the means of most common Luristan soldiers. Superb condition Size: L:435mm; 260g. Provenance: Property of an established London gallery; acquired from a private estate collection formed in the 1980s.
c. 2000-1000 BC, Amlash culture. Bronze axehead with heavy, wedge-shaped blade, narrow waist, which flares substantial butt to a featuring a circular socket. The butt features a raised rondel emitting wavy lines and is enclosed by two rows of cuvillinear decoration above and below it. Amlash culture refers to an assortment of historic materials and periods in Northern Iran, ranging between the 2nd century BC and the Sassanian period (ending in the 7th century AD). Bronze weaponry production flourished in Europe from the 3000 BC – 1200 BC, when it was gradually replaced by iron over the following 500 years. Swords, axes, spears, and arrows were important symbols of war in Bronze Age societies and served as powerful reminders of where authority lay. Good condition, on a custom-made stand. Size: H:120mm/L:105mm/H:70mm (without stand); 564g. Provenance: Property of a professional London art expert; obtained from an old British collection formed in the 1980s.
1200-800 BC, Greek Archaic Period. A bronze sword with a pointed, bevelled blade, raised midrib and a short tang with a perforation for affixing the blade to a pommel. Bronze weaponry production flourished in western Asia, the Aegean, and Mainland Greece from the 2nd millennium BC to about 700 BC, when it was gradually replaced by iron. Swords, spears, and arrows were important symbols of war in Greek Bronze Age societies and served as powerful reminders that authority rested in the hands of those who could earn it. Superb condition; on a custom-made stand. Size: L:460mm; 442g. Provenance: From an old British collection, acquired on the UK art market in the 1980s.
C. 3000 BC – 1200 BC, Bronze Age.. A tanged bronze spearhead comprising a long lozenge shaped blade with a raised midrib, short neck and a beautiful green patina. This item is mounted on a stand. Bronze weaponry production flourished in Europe from the 3000 BC – 1200 BC, when it was gradually replaced by iron over the following 500 years. Swords, spears, and arrows were important symbols of war in Bronze Age societies and served as powerful reminders that authority rested in the hands of those who could earn it. Good condition. Size: L:117mm; 29g
1200 – 800 BC. Greek Archaic period. Lot of a bronze blade and two ancient bronze spearheads; 1) rectangular bronze blade with tang, point missing; 2-3) two spearheads with triangular-shaped, lentoid-section blades with raised midribs, short necks and tangs. Bronze weaponry production flourished in western Asia, the Aegean, and Mainland Greece from the 2nd millennium BC to about 700 BC, when it was gradually replaced by iron. Swords, spears, and arrows were important symbols of war in Greek Bronze Age societies and served as powerful reminders that authority rested in the hands of those who could earn it. Good condition. Size: L:67-135mm; 45g. Provenance: Property of a London gallery, previously in old British collection formed in the 1980s.
1200-800 BC, Greek Archaic Period. This beautiful cast bronze sword has a tapering, bevelled blade with raised midrib and an integral handle with a recessed crescentic lower guard that would have been inset with stone, bone or ivory inlay. Bronze weaponry production flourished in western Asia, the Aegean, and Mainland Greece from the 2nd millennium BC to about 700 BC, when it was gradually replaced by iron. Swords, spears, and arrows were important symbols of war in Greek Bronze Age societies and served as powerful reminders that authority rested in the hands of those who could earn it. Good condition. Size: L:440mm / W:60mm ; 423g. Provenance: From the private collection of a Central London gentleman; previously in a collection formed on the UK/European art market formed in the 1980s;
800 – 600 BC. Greek Hoplite Period. Bronze spearhead comprising a substantial leaf-shaped, lentoid-section blade with raised midrib and medium neck and a beautiful green patina. Hoplites were the citizen-soldiers of Ancient Greece, where each city state was fiercely independent and could only be sustained through the military power of its male inhabitants. Hoplites primarily fought using the closed phalanx formation to allow best use of their frequently small numbers, and their principal equipment would have included large, circular (‘Argive’) shields and spears like this one. For more information on Greek hoplite warfare, see Donald Kagan and Gregory F. Viggiano (eds., 2013). Men of Bronze: Hoplite Warfare in Ancient Greece, Princeton University Press. Good condition. Size: L:150mm; 74g. Provenance: From an old British collection, acquired on the UK art market in the 1990s.
C. 100 BC - 50AD. Iron Age. An iron single bladed knife with an integral handle with an elaborate bronze ram’s head pommel. This beautiful knife would have been a statement of its owner’s wealth and privilege making appearances at feasts and ritual events to the envy of those who beheld it. Good condition; on a custom-made stand. Size: L:220mm; 59g. Provenance: From the private collection of an Essex gentleman; previously in an old British Collection, formed before 2000.
1200-800 BC, Greek Archaic Period. A bronze sword with a pointed, bevelled blade, raised midrib and a short tang with a perforation for affixing the blade to a pommel. This item is mounted on a stand. Bronze weaponry production flourished in western Asia, the Aegean, and Mainland Greece from the 2nd millennium BC to about 700 BC, when it was gradually replaced by iron. Swords, spears, and arrows were important symbols of war in Greek Bronze Age societies and served as powerful reminders that authority rested in the hands of those who could earn it. Superb condition. Size: L:385mm / W:50mm ; 266g. Provenance: Property of a North London gentleman; previously acquire on the UK/European art market in the 1980s;
1200-800 BC, Greek Archaic Period. A bronze spearhead with a leaf-shaped, lentoid sectioned blade, raised midrib and a tang. Bronze weaponry production flourished in western Asia, the Aegean, and Mainland Greece from the 2nd millennium BC to about 700 BC, when it was gradually replaced by iron. Swords, spears, and arrows were important symbols of war in Greek Bronze Age societies and served as powerful reminders that authority rested in the hands of those who could earn it. Superb condition, on a custom-made stand. Size: L:145mm; 43g. Provenance: Property of a London gallery, previously in old British collection formed in the 1980s.
1200-800 BC, Greek Archaic Period. A bronze spearhead with a lozenge-shaped, lentoid sectioned blade, raised midrib and a short tang. Bronze weaponry production flourished in western Asia, the Aegean, and Mainland Greece from the 2nd millennium BC to about 700 BC, when it was gradually replaced by iron. Swords, spears, and arrows were important symbols of war in Greek Bronze Age societies and served as powerful reminders that authority rested in the hands of those who could earn it. Good condition, on a custom-made stand. Size: L:183mm; 53g. Provenance: Private London collection, formed in the 1980s on the UK and European art market.
1200 – 800 BC, Greek Archaic. Lot of three bronze spearheads each with a leaf-shaped, lentoid-section blade with a raised midrib, robust neck, and short tang and beautiful patina. Bronze weaponry production flourished in western Asia, the Aegean, and Mainland Greece from the 2nd millennium BC to about 700 BC, when it was gradually replaced by iron. Swords, spears, and arrows were important symbols of war in Greek Bronze Age societies and served as powerful reminders that authority rested in the hands of those who could earn it. Good condition. Size: L:92-112mm; 53g. Provenance: From an old British collection, acquired on the UK art market in the 1990s.
2000-700 BC, Luristan Culture. This beautiful cast bronze age axe head features a heavy wedge-shaped head to the front, a circular socket, and a heavy circular hammerhead to the rear. Bronze weaponry production flourished from the 2nd millennium BC to about 700BC when it was gradually replaced by iron. Swords, spears, axes and arrows were exchanged via trade and war and are discovered in both civic and ritual contexts. An axehead such as this one would have been an important symbol of rank, and power beyond the means of most common Luristanis. Good condition; on a custom-made stand. Size: H:125mm/H:115mm (without stand); 315g. Provenance: Property of a London gallery, previously in old British collection formed in the 1980s.
1200-800 BC, Bronze Age Luristan..Rare bronze axe with flat, broad blade, which tapers to a cuvillinear tang featuring horn-shaped guard. Bronze weaponry production flourished in western Asia, the Aegean, and Mainland Greece from the 2nd millennium BC to about 700 BC, when it was gradually replaced by iron. Swords, spears, and arrows were important symbols of war in Greek Bronze Age societies and served as powerful reminders that authority rested in the hands of those who could earn it. Superb condition; on custom-made stand. Size: H:200mm / W:100mm ; 268g. Provenance: Property of a London gallery, previously in old British collection formed in the 1980s.
1200-800 BC, Greek Archaic Period. A tanged bronze spearhead comprising a leaf-shaped blade with a raised midrib, and a beautiful green patina. This item is mounted on a stand. Bronze weaponry production flourished in western Asia, the Aegean, and Mainland Greece from the 2nd millennium BC to about 700 BC, when it was gradually replaced by iron. Swords, spears, and arrows were important symbols of war in Greek Bronze Age societies and served as powerful reminders that authority rested in the hands of those who could earn it. Superb condition. Size: L:270mm; 126g. Provenance: From the private collection of a Kent gentleman; previously in an old British collection, formed in the 1980s on the UK /European art markets.
1200-800 BC, Greek Archaic Period. A bronze spearhead with a triangular, lentoid sectioned blade, raised midrib and a long tang. This item is mounted on a stand. Bronze weaponry production flourished in western Asia, the Aegean, and Mainland Greece from the 2nd millennium BC to about 700 BC, when it was gradually replaced by iron. Swords, spears, and arrows were important symbols of war in Greek Bronze Age societies and served as powerful reminders that authority rested in the hands of those who could earn it. Good condition. Size: L:170mm; 34g. Provenance: From an old British collection, acquired on the UK art market in the 1980s.
1200-800 BC, Greek Archaic Period. A bronze spearhead with a lozenge-shaped,lentoid sectioned blade, raised midrib and a long tang. This item is mounted on a stand. Bronze weaponry production flourished in western Asia, the Aegean, and Mainland Greece from the 2nd millennium BC to about 700 BC, when it was gradually replaced by iron. Swords, spears, and arrows were important symbols of war in Greek Bronze Age societies and served as powerful reminders that authority rested in the hands of those who could earn it. Good condition. Size: L:180mm; 64g. Provenance: From an old British collection, acquired on the UK art market in the 1980s.
1200 – 800 BC, Greek Archaic Period. Lot of three bronze spearheads; 1) with a leaf-shaped, lentoid-section blade with a raised and decorated midrib which transitions into the neck and tang; 2-3) two spearheads with short triangular-shaped, slightly barbed blades with short necks and tangs. Bronze weaponry production flourished in western Asia, the Aegean, and Mainland Greece from the 2nd millennium BC to about 700 BC, when it was gradually replaced by iron. Swords, spears, and arrows were important symbols of war in Greek Bronze Age societies and served as powerful reminders that authority rested in the hands of those who could earn it. Good condition. Size: L:38-127mm; 46g. Provenance: Private London collection, formed in the 1990s on the UK and European art market.
C. 800-1500 AD. Viking, Crusader and Norman ages. A lot of five arrowheads (from left to right): 1) triangular-shaped arrowhead with pyramidal section and tang; 2) elongated lozenge-shaped arrowhead and tang. 3) triangular-shaped arrowhead with oblique shoulders and pyramidal section and tang; 4) tapering splay-shaped arrowhead; 5) leaf-shaped arrowhead with pyramidal section and tang. Arrows were a key part of medieval society both as instruments of war but also as weapons for hunting. One of the most evocative images of arrows as weapons of war appears on the Bayeux Tapestry, where King Harold is depicted after taking an arrow to the eye, leading to the Norman victory at the Battle of Hastings in 1066 AD. For further information on arrowheads, see C. Rau (2017) European Arrowheads and Crossbow Bolts: From the Bronze Age to the Late Middle Ages. Fair condition. Size: L:57-100mm; 60g. Provenance: Private London collection, formed since the 1980s on the UK and European art market.
800 – 600 BC, Greek Hoplite Period. Beautiful bronze lance head comprising a substantial leaf-shaped, lentoid-section blade with raised midrib, incised decoration, and a long socket for increased control. Hoplites were the citizen-soldiers of Ancient Greece, where each city state was fiercely independent and could only be sustained through the military power of its male inhabitants. Hoplites primarily fought using the closed phalanx formation to allow best use of their frequently small numbers, and their principal equipment would have included large, circular (‘Argive’) shields and spears like this one. For more information on Greek hoplite warfare, see Donald Kagan and Gregory F. Viggiano (eds., 2013). Men of Bronze: Hoplite Warfare in Ancient Greece, Princeton University Press. Superb condition, with a beautiful patina. Size: L:555mm / W:50mm ; 317g. Provenance: Property of a North London professional; previously acquire on the UK/European art market in the 1970s;
1000 – 600 BC. Bronze Age. This thick and heavy cast Bronze Age bracelet features a hexagonal section. In the Bronze Age bracelets were used not only as jewellery but also as ritual objects of high value, which allowed their owners to store wealth before the invention of coinage. Such bracelets are sometimes discovered in large hoards, and are an important part of the Bronze Age cultures in both Europe and Asia. Good condition, beautiful patina. Size: H:85mm / W:70mm ; 214g. Provenance: Private London collection, formed since the 1970s on the UK and European art market.
700-1100 AD, Viking Age. A heavy bronze coiled bracelet intended to evoke the form of a snake. In Viking society, arm rings and bracelets were not just decorative, but also served to mark bonds of loyalty between a lord and his followers in a culture where honour was a matter of life and death. Such items were also. given to young men to mark their coming of age and bracelets of precious metals were also used as currency in a time before the widespread availability of coinage. In Norse mythology, Jormungand (pronounced “YOUR-mun-gand;” Old Norse Jörmungandr, “Great Beast”), also called the “Midgard Serpent,” is a snake or dragon who lives in the ocean that surrounds Midgard, the visible world. He was so enormous that his body forms a circle around the entirety of Midgard. He’s one of the three children of Loki and the giantess Angrboda, along with Hel and Fenrir. Good condition, beautiful patina Size: H:73mm; 76.5g. Provenance: Property of a professional London art expert; obtained from an old British collection formed in the 1990s.
700-900 AD, Viking Age. A bronze bracelet with decoration in the form of crosses and boxes. In Viking society, arm rings and bracelets were not just decorative, but also served to mark bonds of loyalty between a lord and his followers in a culture where honour was a matter of life and death. Such items were also given to young men to mark their coming of age and bracelets of precious metals were also used as currency in a time before the widespread availability of coinage. Good condition, beautiful patina Size: H:58mm; 17g. Provenance: Private Kent collection, formed in the 1980s on the UK art market.
700-1100 AD, Viking Age. A bronze bracelet with punched dot and box decoration, and raised ridges on the terminals thought to be a stylised depictions of dragons, which frequently appear on Viking-age ornaments. In Viking society, arm rings and bracelets were not just decorative, but also served to mark bonds of loyalty between a lord and his followers in a culture where honour was a matter of life and death. Such items were also. given to young men to mark their coming of age and bracelets of precious metals were also used as currency in a time before the widespread availability of coinage. Dragons were important figures in Norse mythology, and were known for their powerful, destructive nature, perhaps reflecting a claim to power by the individual who once owned this bracelet. Good condition, beautiful patina Size: H:62mm; 39.5g. Provenance: Private Kent collection, formed in the 1980-90s on the UK art market.
1000-1200 AD, Medieval. Bronze ring with circular hoop and diamond-shaped bezel featuring engraved decoration in the form of two confronted hearts, perhaps reflecting the items use as a marriage or wedding ring. Marriage rings were first used in antiquity but became increasingly popular in the Middle Ages, when they were worn by married women but not usually by men; husbands only started to wear wedding rings in the 20th century. This item therefore probably belonged to a medieval woman. Good, wearable condition. Size: D:19mm/L:22mm;; 3.5g. Provenance: From an old British collection, acquired on the UK art market in the 1990s.
100-300 AD, Roman. Bronze ring with D-shaped hoop with stepped circular bezel featuring incised a repeating crescent moon motif. In popular belief the Roman saw the moon as protecting against evil forces, demons and sorcery, but especially against the evil eye. The crescent moon is also associated with the goddess Luna. Good condition. Size: D:16mm/L:20mm; 3g. Provenance: Property of an Oxfordshire art professional; previously in an old British collection, formed in the 1980s on the UK / International art markets.
700-1100 AD, Viking Age. A nice bronze coiled ring, intended to evoke the form of a snake. In Norse mythology, Jormungand (pronounced “YOUR-mun-gand;” Old Norse Jörmungandr, “Great Beast”), also called the “Midgard Serpent,” is a snake or dragon who lives in the ocean that surrounds Midgard, the visible world. He was so enormous that his body forms a circle around the entirety of Midgard. He is one of the three children of Loki and the giantess Angrboda, along with Hel and Fenrir. Good condition. Size: D:19mm/L:24mm/H:18mm; 8g. Provenance: Property of a London gallery, previously in old British collection formed in the 1980s.
800-1200 AD, Byzantine. Bronze ring with a circular loop, an eight-petalled flower-shaped and light blue glass inset. The medieval empire of Byzantium was justly famous for the elegance of its jewellery, whether in precious metals for empresses and aristocratic women, or in bronze for people further down the social ladder. This beautiful bronze example probably adorned the hand of a middle- or lower-class Byzantine woman. Good, wearable condition. Size: D:19mm/L:24mm;; 4g. Provenance: From an old British collection, acquired on the UK art market in the 1990s.
1300-1400 AD, Crusader period. This bronze pectoral cross features rounded arms and mould-beaten decoration showing Christ on the cross (obverse) and Mary with infant Christ (reverse) both flanked by haloed saints. A suspension loop at the top of the cross would have allowed for the cross to be worn around the neck. The Cross, the principal symbol of the Christian religion, recalling the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ and the redeeming benefits of his Passion and death. The cross is thus a sign both of Christ himself and of the faith of Christians. The Cross that the Crusaders wore on their robes was a symbol of martyrdom, and to die in combat was considered a great honour that assured a place in heaven. Good condition. Size: H:73mm / W:50mm ; 10.5g. Provenance: From the private collection of an Essex gentleman; previously in an old British Collection, formed in the 1980s.
C. 2000 BC, Luristan, Western Asia. Intricate spherical bronze cage amulet with openwork decoration, suspension loop at the top, and stylised bird ornaments on the sides. The power of each amulet was variable and derived from a combination the amulet’s shape, decoration, inscription, colour, material, and any magic incantations spoken over the piece. The precise meaning of this amulet is unclear due to the lack of written sources about the Luristan culture which prospered in mountainous western Iran during the Bronze Age, but comparable evidence from elsewhere suggests powerful symbolic and magical meanings are likely. Good condition; attractive patina. Size: H:68mm / W:47mm ; 33.5g. Provenance: Property of an Oxfordshire art professional; previously in an old British collection, formed in the 1980s on the UK / International art markets.
700-1100 AD, Viking Age. Bronze pendant showing a horned, winged beast, probably a dragon, in profile. In Norse mythology, Fáfnir (Old Norse and Icelandic) or Frænir is a son of the dwarf king Hreidmar and brother of Regin, Ótr, Lyngheiðr and Lofnheiðr. After being affected by the curse of Andvari's ring and gold, Fafnir became a dragon and was slain by the brave hero Sigurd. Dragons were powerful mythological symbols, embodying power and strength. Good condition, beautiful patina Size: H:28mm / W:28mm ; 5g. Provenance: From an old British collection, acquired on the UK art market in the 1980s.
Ca.800 - 600 BC. An early necklace formed from stone beads and bronze pendants in a variety of shapes including bells, buckets and (restrung). Bells had magical implications in ancient societies as their unpredictable noises could help to keep away evil spirits. Such pendants may originally have belonged to precursors of the Druids. A Druid (Celtic: “Knowing [or Finding] the Oak Tree”) was a member of the learned class among the ancient Celts. They seem to have frequented oak forests and acted as priests, teachers, and judges. The earliest written testimony of the Druids comes from the 3rd century BC but they probably originated much earlier as this late dating reflects the point at which the literate Greek-speaking societies of the Mediterranean came into contact with the Celts of Northern Europe. Good condition, professionally restrung, suitable for contemporary wear. Size: L:780mm/L:480mm (beads only); 272g. Provenance: From the private collection of a Cambridgeshire gentleman; previously in an old British collection, formed in the 1980s on the UK /European art markets.
C. 900-1100 AD. Viking Period. This beautiful bronze torc has a twisted design, with its terminals fashioned into a hook and loop closure system. This pieces is made even more stunning by it’s beautiful patina. Torcs are found in many European cultures c. the 8th century BC to the 3rd century AD. However, these elaborate items of jewellery made a reappearance during the Viking period c. 900-1100 AD perhaps due to their twisting nature which recalls Loki’s snake/dragon son Jormungand who lives in the oceanthat surrounds Midgard. Torcs such as this one would also have served as important symbols of rank and wealth. Superb condition. Wearable. Size: H:165mm; 60g. Provenance: Property of a professional Ancient art and jewelry expert; previously with a London gallery; initially from a private British collection formed before 2000.
C. 1200 - 1800 AD. Medieval and post-Medieval. A beautiful collection of 10 cross pendants including bronze and iron examples, all of which are cast, most have raised decoration. This lot includes a particularly stunning celtic cross. Crosses are the principal symbol of the Christian religion, recalling the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ and the redeeming benefits of his Passion and death. The cross is thus a sign both of Christ himself and of the faith of Christians. Good condition. Size: 25-37mm; 15.5g. Provenance: Property of a London gallery, previously in old British collection formed in the 1980s.
1000 – 600 BC, Bronze Age. This thick and heavy cast bronze bracelet feature a D-shape a faux-knot motif on the flattened side. In the Bronze Age bracelets were used not only as jewellery but also as ritual objects of high value, which allowed their owners to store wealth before the invention of coinage. Such bracelets are discovered in burials as grave gifts or found in large hoards, and an important part of the Bronze Age cultures in both Europe and Asia. Good condition, beautiful patina. Size: H:66mm; 67g. Provenance: Property of a London gallery, previously in old British collection formed in the 1980s.
700-1000 AD, Viking Age. Small bronze coiled ring bearing incised chevron decoration. This item was made to be worn in a man's hair or beard, and would have originally sparkled in the light of the sun, creating a beauitful shimmering effect. Good condition; attractive patina. Size: D:17mm/L:20mm/H:28mm; 7g. Provenance: Property of a North London gentleman; previously acquire on the UK/European art market in the 1970s;
Ca 1-300 AD, Roman. A bronze key ring with a thick circular hoop and a sub-rectangular projecting bezel with four teeth of varying shape and size. Keys rings were used to open chests, boxes, and caskets, although they sometimes served ceremonial or decorative purposes, such as matron keys, and votive offerings. Key rings were also a subtle status symbol implying that the wearer had valuable assets to protect. Good Condition, wearable. Size: D:15mm/L:33mm; 13g. Provenance: From an old British collection, acquired on the UK art market in the 1990s.
800-1500 AD. Viking, Crusader and Norman ages. A lot of five arrowheads (from left to right); 1) barbed lanceolate arrowhead with pyramidal section and tang; 2) lanceolate arrowhead with slight shoulders, pyramidal section and tang 3) triangular arrowhead with square section and tang. 4) triangular-shaped arrowhead with square section and tang. 5) barbed triangular arrowhead with pyramidal section and tang. Arrows were a key part of medieval society both as instruments of war but also as weapons for hunting. One of the most evocative images of arrows as weapons of war appears on the Bayeux Tapestry, where King Harold is depicted after taking an arrow to the eye, leading to the Norman victory at the Battle of Hastings in 1066 AD. For further information on arrowheads, see C. Rau (2017) European Arrowheads and Crossbow Bolts: From the Bronze Age to the Late Middle Ages. Fair condition. Size: L:55-105mm; 53g. Provenance: From the private collection of an Essex gentleman; previously in an old British Collection, formed in the 1980s on the UK / European art markets.
C. 600 BC, Bronze Age Large bronze cage pendant. The pendant's spheroid shape delicately from an interlocking openwork circle and dot pattern. Such pendants may originally have belonged to precursors of the Druids. A Druid (Celtic: “Knowing [or Finding] the Oak Tree”) was a member of the learned class among the ancient Celts. They seem to have frequented oak forests and acted as priests, teachers, and judges. The earliest written testimony of the Druids comes from the 3rd century BC but they probably originated much earlier as this late dating reflects the point at which the literate Greek-speaking societies of the Mediterranean came into contact with the Celts of Northern Europe. Good condition, Size: H:55mm / W:35mm ; 29.5g. Provenance: Property of an Oxfordshire art professional; previously in an old British collection, formed in the 1980s on the UK / International art markets.
C. 600 BC, Bronze Age European. Openwork bronze sun pendant comprising a circular disk with round perforations and spherical ornaments; a suspension loop is attached at the top. The sun is commonly depicted in Bronze Age art and seems to have been a powerful symbol of fertility and the passage of time. However, the sun was not just a natural phenomenon but was often viewed as a god in many Bronze Age societies. Good condition. Size: H:67mm / W:57mm ; 28g. Provenance: Property of a London gallery, previously in old British collection formed in the 1980s.
700-900 AD, Viking Age. A nice bronze arm ring / bracelet a flat section and areas of incised decoration in the form of dot-in-circle motifs, possibly representing the sun. In Viking society, arm rings and bracelets were not just decorative, but also served to mark bonds of loyalty between a lord and his followers in a culture where honour was a matter of life and death. Such items were also. given to young men to mark their coming of age and bracelets of precious metals were also used as currency in a time before the widespread availability of coinage. Good condition, beautiful patina Size: H:58mm; 12g. Provenance: Property of a North London professional; previously acquire on the UK/European art market in the 1990s;
1000 – 600 BC, Bronze Age. This elegant cast Bronze Age bracelet features a rounded section and tapering terminals. In the Bronze Age bracelets were used not only as jewellery but also as ritual objects of high value, which allowed their owners to store wealth before the invention of coinage. Such bracelets are discovered in burials as grave gifts or found in large hoards, and an important part of the Bronze Age cultures in both Europe and Asia. Excellent condition, beautiful patina. Size: H:58mm; 8.5g. Provenance: Private Kent collection, formed in the 1980s on the UK art market.
C. 1-300 AD. Roman. A heavy bronze armilla bracelet with rectangular section and circular terminals. Armillae were armband style bracelets awarded as a military decoration. The rank of the soldier in question determined the metal from which the bracelet was made either gold, silver or bronze. These bracelets were not for everyday wear, but were occasion pieces worn at special military and civic events suchs a triumphs, religious ceremonies and games. Superb condition. Wearable. Size: H:66mm; 38g. Provenance: From the private collection of a Somerset gentleman; previously in an old British collection, formed in the 1980s on the UK /European art markets.
1000-1500 AD, Medieval Crusader period. Bronze ring with a thick circular loop and circular bezel featuring an incised Star of BethIehem motif. In the Christian tradition, the Star of Bethlehem, also called the Christmas Star, revealed the birth of Jesus to the Biblical Magi, and later led them to Bethlehem. The star appears only in the nativity story of the Gospel of Matthew, where magi "from the east" are inspired by the star to travel to Jerusalem. There they meet King Herod of Judea, and ask where the king of the Jews has been born. Herod, following a verse from the book of Micah interpreted as a prophecy, directs them to Bethlehem, a nearby village. The star leads them to the stable where Jesus was born in Bethlehem, where they worship him, and give him gifts. It is a symbol often depicted on rings and jewellery during the Medieval period. Good, wearable condition. Size: D:20mm/L:23mm; 6g.Provenance: Private Kent collection, formed in the 1980-90s on the UK art market.
c. 900 AD, Viking Age. A substantial bronze twisted ring with a single row of corded metal on the hoop and two rows on the bezel. This ring would have taken many hours to. make, due to the need to continually anneal (reheat) the metal during the twisting stage in order to remove the tension from the metal's molecular surface and prevent breakage. Fair condition Size: D:20mm/L:33mm; 8g.Provenance: From an old British collection, acquired on the UK art market in the 1990s.
1200-800 BC, Greek Archaic Period. This beautiful cast bronze sword has a tapering, bevelled blade with raised curvilinear decoration at its base and an integral handle with incised striped decoration and a crescentc lower guard. Bronze weaponry production flourished in western Asia, the Aegean, and Mainland Greece from the 2nd millennium BC to about 700 BC, when it was gradually replaced by iron. Swords, spears, and arrows were important symbols of war in Greek Bronze Age societies and served as powerful reminders that authority rested in the hands of those who could earn it. Superb condition. Size: H:475mm / W:75mm ; 640g. Provenance: Property of a North London gentleman; previously acquire on the UK/European art market in the 1970s;
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