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Lot 100
C. AD 618-907. Tang Dynasty. Terracotta head of a court lady. This beautiful ceramic depicts the full face of a well-off court lady with delicate facial features modelled in careful detail and an extremely elaborate hairdo. Court attendants served an inportant role in the management of the imperial palace’s private quarters. During the Tang period service as a court attendant conveyed high status to the women who had served and increased their marriage prospects. Good condition.Size: L:210mm / W:100mm ; 1kg; Provenance: Private collection of an Oxford professional, formed in the 1970s-1990s on the UK art market.
Lot 102
Ca. 1368-1644 AD. Chinese Ming Dynasty. An elaborately crafted male attendant figure dressed in a light blue tunic, a dark blue overtunic which is belted with a light blue sash, and a tall dark-coloured hat. The attendant’s has a long blue object clutched to his chest. During the Ming Dynasty the Chinese art industry flourished and the production of ceramic and porcelain pieces increased exponentially. Figures of this type were particularly popular during the Ming artistic revival which placed great importance on depicting aspects of Chinese political and social life including warriors, servants and ladies of high status. Good condition.Size: L:227mm / W:56mm ; 410g; Provenance: Important estate collection from Oxfordshire; formed in the 1970s-2000.
Lot 11
Ca. 618-907 AD. Chinese Tang Dynasty Ceramic ‘Fat Lady’ Figure. The figure stands facing forward, with one foot angled to the side, and a child cradled on her left arm. She wears long-sleeved, loose-hanging robes, and the court dress is embellished with delicately detailed upturned shoes. The original pigmentation is still visible on the figure’s face, dress, and hair. The facial features, such as the eyes, lips, nose, and eyebrows are picked out by delicate painting. An elaborate coiffure crowns the face of the ‘Fat Lady’. The so called ‘Fat Lady’ was a popular attendant figure among the wealthy as during the Tang dynasty luxurious tastes led to a change in the ideal feminine form, from thin to more buxom body types. This piece has been precisely dated having undergone Thermo Luminescence analysis by Ralf Kotalla, an independent German Laboratory. The samples collected date the piece to the period reflected in its style, whilst also showing no modern trace elements. Its TL certificate with full report will also accompany this lot. Good condition. Hand Repaired. Size: L:495mm / W:175mm ; 4.25kg; Provenance; Property of a Central London gallery, acquired from an established English collection; formerly acquired in Hong Kong, Hollywood Antique Center in the early 1990s.
Lot 110
C. 3rd millennium BC. Ancient Central Asia, Indus Valley. A fine example of an Indus Valley civilisation painted bowl with a hemispherical body and a ring foot. The interior features aa repeating brown painted ibex motif, which can be distinguished by its magnificent curved horns, framed by concentric circular registers and chevrons. The Indus Valley Civilisation was an important Bronze Age culture which arose in c. 3300 BC and lasted until c. 1300, though its heyday, to which this ceramic vessel belongs, was in the 3rd Millennium BC. The ibex is an important motif in Indus valley art because of the animal’s reputation as a hardy survivor and fierce fighter. Cf. N. Satyawadi, 1994. Proto-Historic Pottery of the Indus Valley Civilisation: Study of Painted Motifs, New Delhi. Excellent condition.Size: L:90mm / W:212mm ; 540g; Provenance: From an old British collection of Asian Art formed in the 1990 on the UK and European art market.
Lot 12
C. AD 618-907. Tang Dynasty. Two full-figured court attendant terracottas. Both of these court attendant ladies are posed with both hands held up in front of the torso, one bare and one covered by a long sleeve. Both figures figure are presented wearing a long vest, tied to the waist, and an under layer with long sleeves. Each lady is highly detailed with her robes picked out in pastel tones, her upturned shoes a deep black and her hair arranged in an elaborate double bun updo. Court attendants served an inportant role in the management of the imperial palace’s private quarters. During the Tang period service as a court attendant conveyed high status to the women who had served and increased their marriage prospects. This piece has been precisely dated having undergone Thermo Luminescence analysis by Ralf Kotalla, an independent German Laboratory. The samples collected date the piece to the period reflected in its style, whilst also showing no modern trace elements. Its TL certificate with full report will also accompany this lot. Good condition.Size: L:Set of 2: 490mm / W:190mm ; 7.25kg; Provenance; Property of a Central London gallery, acquired from an established English collection; formerly acquired in Hong Kong, Hollywood Antique Center in the early 1990s.
Lot 120
c. 2000-700 BC. Luristan Culture. A rare Bronze sceptre formed from central tube which terminates in a stylised male head, representing the Master of Animals. He is flanked by two open-mouthed beasts, each of whom he grasps by the tail. Lower down the central tube are two further stylised human heads, arranged on atop the other. The Master of Animals is an important motif in ancient art, symbolising man’s power over the natural world. Excellent condition; beautiful patina; on a custom stand.Size: L:445mm / W:180mm ; 610g; Provenance: From the important collection of a London doctor A.R; passed by descent to his son; formerly acquired the 1980s on the UK art market.
Lot 134
600-900 AD. Byzantine. A rare medieval gold ring with a hexagonal hoop and zoomorphic bezel in the form of a bird in flight; the bird’s back is decorated with a teardrop shaped garnet cabochon and granulated borders. The medieval empire of Byzantium was justly famous for the elegance of its jewellery, whether in precious metals for the royalty and aristocracy, or in bronze for people further down the social ladder. This beautiful item may once have belonged to a Byzantine noblewoman. In order to confirm its authenticity, this piece has undergone X-Ray Fluorescence analysis by an independent Belgian Laboratory. The samples collected show the chemical composition to reflect the typical metal contents of the described period, whilst also showing no modern trace elements in the patina. Excellent condition; wearable.Size: D: 17.13mm / US: 6 3/4 / UK: N1/2; 5.7g; Provenance: Property of a professional Ancient art and jewelry expert; previously with a London gallery; initially from a private British collection formed in the 1980s.
Lot 135
100-300 AD. Roman. A stunning gold wing with a thick, circular hoop and rounded red stone intaglio setting engraved with a bee in flight. Bees were associated with the goddess Artemis, and because the Temple of Artemis was situated in Ephesus, bees became a symbol of the city too. In fact, priestesses at the Temple were even called melissae (meaning honeybees). This gorgeous item might once have belonged either to a priestess or to one of the city’s chief magistrates. Excellent condition; wearable.Size: D: 17.45mm / US: 7 1/4 / UK: O1/2; 5.6g; Provenance: Property of a professional Ancient art and jewelry expert; previously with a London gallery; initially from a private British collection formed in the 1980s.
Lot 16
Ca. 618 - 907 AD. Chinese Tang Dynasty. An elegant hollow-moulded terracotta horse. This horse is modelled in a standing pose, with one foreleg lifted. The animal’s neck is beautifully arched with its mouth agape as if calling to its fellows. The horse’s mane is modelled in detail and is shown flowing down its neck. The trappings and musculature are equally well rendered. The tail is depicted docked and bound in the traditional fashion. The white slip remains, with additional pigments, such as orange and black and green, used to pick out details of the features, such as floral details on the trappings, the saddle blanket and the muzzle. The horse is placed on a rectangular base. Horses were an important status symbol during the Tang ‘golden age’. They were the rewards of victorious military campaigns which lead to imperial stability and wealth. Indeed, the Tang emperors often described their favourite horses in detail commenting on their colouration, conformation and temperament. This piece has been precisely dated having undergone Thermo Luminescence analysis by Ralf Kotalla, an independent German Laboratory. The samples collected date the piece to the period reflected in its style, whilst also showing no modern trace elements. Its TL certificate with full report will also accompany this lot. Good condition.Size: L:470mm / W:455mm ; 7.55kg; Provenance; Property of a Central London gallery, acquired from an established English collection; formerly acquired in Hong Kong, Hollywood Antique Center in the early 1990s.
Lot 181
Ca. 1200 AD, Medieval. A silver archer’s ring comprising a circular hoop and projecting triangular guard. The exterior of the hoop and guard are covered in extensive incised geometric motifs. An archer’s ring was worn on the thumb to protect the skin when the bowstring was drawn. Excellent condition; beautiful patina.Size: D: 24.27mm / US: / UK: Z+6; 15.4g; Provenance: Private London collection, formed in the 1980-90s on the UK and European art market.
Lot 184
C. 1500-1700 AD. Post-medieval. A rare silver ring with a circular hoop and applied bezel in the form of a devil’s head, with beaklike mouth, circular eyes, prominent nose and horns. Possibly owned by someone practicing witchcraft and used as a sign of devotion to the Devil. Very few of these survived due to the persecutions of the church. Excellent condition; wearable.Size: D: 19.31mm / US: 9 3/8 / UK: S1/2; 3.6g; Provenance: Property of a London gallery, previously in old British collection formed in the 1980s.
Lot 2
Ca. 618 - 907 AD. Chinese Tang Dynasty. An elegant hollow-moulded terracotta horse. This horse is modelled in a standing pose on a square base. The animal’s neck is stretching forward, with its ears pricked forward attentively. The horse’s musculature is rendered in great detail on the neck and hind quarters The tail is depicted docked and bound in the traditional fashion. The chestnut- coloured pigment is still vibrant. The horse's trappings, include elaborate harness with dangling tassels, a bridle wth matching tassels as well as a saddle blanket and saddle. The saddle blanket is modelled with crosshatching to imitate quilting while the saddle is highly decorated with the uppermost layer modelled to represent a green cloth cover, whilst the under panel showcases a delicate floral motif. Horses were an important status symbol during the Tang ‘golden age’. They were the rewards of victorious military campaigns which lead to imperial stability and wealth. Indeed, the Tang emperors often described their favourite horses in detail commenting on their colouration, conformation and temperament. This piece has been precisely dated having undergone Thermo Luminescence analysis by Ralf Kotalla, an independent German Laboratory. The samples collected date the piece to the period reflected in its style, whilst also showing no modern trace elements. Its TL certificate with full report will also accompany this lot. Excellent condition.Size: L:700mm / W:720mm ; 17.2kg; Provenance; Property of a Central London gallery, acquired from an established English collection; formerly acquired in Hong Kong, Hollywood Antique Center in the early 1990s.
Lot 201A
CA. 100 AD. ROMAN SOLID GOLD INTAGLIO RING WITH BULL . In order to confirm its authenticity, this piece has undergone X-Ray Fluorescence analysis by an independent Belgian Laboratory. The samples collected show the chemical composition to reflect the typical metal contents of the described period, whilst also showing no modern trace elements in the patina. Good Condition; Size: D: 19.31mm / US: 9 3/8 / UK: S 1/2; 18.71g; Provenance: Property of a professional Ancient art and jewelry expert; previously with a London gallery; initially from a private British collection formed in the 1980s.
Lot 21
Ca. 618-907 AD. Chinese Tang Dynasty. A ceramic ‘Fat Lady’ figure. The figure stands facing forward, with one foot angled to the side, and holding a dish in one hand. She wears long-sleeved, loose-hanging robes, and the court dress is embellished with delicately detailed upturned shoes. The original pigmentation is still visible on the figure’s face, dress, and hair. The facial features, such as the eyes, lips, nose, and eyebrows are picked out by delicate painting. An elaborate coiffure crowns the face of the ‘Fat Lady’. The so called ‘Fat Lady’ was a popular attendant figure among the wealthy as during the Tang dynasty luxurious tastes led to a change in the ideal feminine form, from thin to more buxom body types. This piece has been precisely dated having undergone Thermo Luminescence analysis by Ralf Kotalla, an independent German Laboratory. The samples collected date the piece to the period reflected in its style, whilst also showing no modern trace elements. Its TL certificate with full report will also accompany this lot. Good condition.Size: L:485mm / W:190mm ; 4.25kg; Provenance; Property of a Central London gallery, acquired from an established English collection; formerly acquired in Hong Kong, Hollywood Antique Center in the early 1990s.
Lot 210
c. 1000-1100 AD. Viking age. A beautiful silver ring with a D-shaped hoop and an elliptical bezel bearing incised decoration in the form of a hunter and a dragon, probably Sigurd and Fáfnir. 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. The wearable reminder of this myth would have inspired bravery in Viking warriors. Good condition; Size: D: 17.75mm / US: 7 1/2 / UK: P; 3.3g;Provenance: Property of a North London professional; previously acquire on the UK/European art market in the 1980s.
Lot 214
C. 1000-1500 AD. Crusader period. A bronze archer’s ring comprising a circular hoop and projecting triangular guard bearing an engraved floral motif. An archer’s ring was worn on the thumb to protect the skin when the bowstring was drawn. The Crusades were military expeditions, beginning in the late 11th century, that were organized by western European Christians in response to centuries of Muslim wars of expansion in the Holy Lands. People of all social classes took place in the Crusades, from heavily armed knights to humble peasants using improvised weapons, all in pursuit of salvation in the afterlife. Excellent condition; beautiful patina.Size: D: 23.47mm / US: / UK: Z+4; 8.2g; Provenance: Property of a London gallery, previously in old British collection formed in the 1970s.
Lot 215
C. 1100-1300 AD. Byzantine. A stunning pair of elaborate gold earrings comprising an open, circular hoop, elongated woven cord connected to a crescent with applied gold spheres, garnet and emerald inlays. A pearl hangs from each end of each crescent, while a garnet and emerald cross is suspended from each crescent’s centre. Finally, three fine pearl pendants are suspended below each of the crosses. The Cross, the principal symbol of Christianity, recalls 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 medieval empire of Byzantium was justly famous for the elegance of its jewellery, whether in precious metals for the aristocracy, or in bronze for people further down the social ladder. These gorgeous pieces may once have belonged to a Byzantine noblewoman or princess. Excellent condition; wearable. Size: L:72mm / W:19mm ; 13.8g; Provenance: Property of a professional Ancient art and jewelry expert; previously with a London gallery; initially from a private British collection formed in the 1980s.
Lot 25
Ca. 618 - 907 AD. Chinese Tang Dynasty. An elegant hollow-moulded terracotta horse. This horse is modelled in a standing pose on a square base. The animal’s neck is stretching forward, with its ears pricked forward and mouth open, as if calling to its fellows. The horse’s musculature is rendered in great detail on the neck and hind quarters. The tail is depicted docked and bound in the traditional fashion while the mane is free-flowing down the animal's neck. The black pigment of the animal's coat is still dark and rich. The horse's trappings, include elaborate harness with dangling tassels, a bridle wth matching tassels as well as a saddle blanket and saddle. Horses were an important status symbol during the Tang ‘golden age’. They were the rewards of victorious military campaigns which lead to imperial stability and wealth. Indeed, the Tang emperors often described their favourite horses in detail commenting on their colouration, conformation and temperament. This piece has been precisely dated having undergone Thermo Luminescence analysis by Ralf Kotalla, an independent German Laboratory. The samples collected date the piece to the period reflected in its style, whilst also showing no modern trace elements. Its TL certificate with full report will also accompany this lot. Excellent condition.Size: L:680mm / W:740mm ; 16.4kg; Provenance; Property of a Central London gallery, acquired from an established English collection; formerly acquired in Hong Kong, Hollywood Antique Center in the early 1990s.
Lot 250
100-300 AD. Roman. A rare bronze plate brooch in the form of a Capricorn – a mythological sea beast with the head and legs of a goat and the tail of a fish – with engraved texturing on its horns, fur and scales. The spring, pin and catch plate well-preserved on the reverse. Brooches were an important element of Roman dress, used to fasten clothing but they also served as dress accessories in their own right. Thousands of different types and subtypes of Roman brooches are attested, and they seem to have played an important role in Roman people’s self-expression. For more information on Roman Brooches see Richard Hattatt. 2000. A Visual Catalogue of Richard Hattatt's Ancient Brooches. Oxbow Books. Excellent condition. Size: L:33mm / W:45mm ; 9.75g; Provenance: Private Kent collection, formed in the 1980-90s on the UK art market.
Lot 252
C. 49-48 BC. Late Roman Republic period. A silver denarius coin of Julius Caesar within a modern handmade circular sterling silver setting made exclusively for Pax Romana Gallery. Obverse: A culullus (horn-shaped drinking vessel), an aspergillum (sprinkler), axe and an apex (ceremonial cap with pointed a wooden crest), which are the trappings of a priest in Roman religion, reflecting Caesar’s status as pontifex maximus. Reverse: an elephant trampling a snake and below it, the legend “CAESAR.†The gorgeous pendant makes a stunning statement piece necklace. Excellent condition; wearable. Size: L:35mm / W:20mm ; 9.3g; Provenance: Property of a London gallery, previously in old British collection formed in the 1980s.
Lot 258
C. 900-1100 AD. Viking Period. This beautiful bronze torc has simple strand design with a an abstract sub-square serpent’s head terminal at one end and a hook at the together. This piece is made even more stunning by its 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 ocean that surrounds Midgard. Torcs such as this one would also have served as important symbols of rank and wealth. Superb condition; wearable.Size: L:158mm / W:186mm ; 74g; Provenance: Property of a London gallery, previously in old British collection formed in the 1970s.
Lot 25A
1100-900 BC. Early Western Zhou Dynasty. Bronze cast vessel Gui comprising a broad shelf-like lip, hemispherical bowl, wide loop handles topped with moulded dragons, and a cylindrical base. Just below the rim is a horizontal frieze showing a stylised dragon. At the part of the frieze which lays midway between the two handles is a projecting dragon’s head. The Gui is a classic vessel shape in Chinese bronzewares, which originated in the Shang dynasty in the 16th century BC but continued to be made for many centuries thereafter. Dragons, the fifth animal of the Chinese zodiac are a symbol of power, strength and good fortune in Chinese art, and this beautiful object may have once been used during rituals or for dining. A similar item was recently sold at Christies for $100,000, see https://www.christies.com/lotfinder/lot/a-bronze-ritual-food-vessel-gui-early-6276466-details.aspx?from=searchresults&intObjectID=6276466. Expertly cleaned and conserved. In order to confirm its authenticity, this piece has undergone X-Ray Fluorescence analysis by an independent Belgian Laboratory. The samples collected show the chemical composition to reflect the typical metal contents of the described period, whilst also showing no modern trace elements in the patina. Excellent condition; beautiful patina.Size: L:170mm / W:215mm ; 2.8kg; Provenance; Property of a Central London gallery, acquired from an established English collection; formerly acquired in Hong Kong, Hollywood Antique Center in the early 1990s.
Lot 279
100-200 AD. Roman. A rare silver bronze plate brooch in the form of a gladiator, wearing a narrow-crested helmet, and holding a sword and a curved rectangular shield, marking him out as a murmillo. The weight of the murmillo’s equipment meant that these were usually the strongest gladiators and they were commonly pitted against the net-wielding retiarius, a match which contrasted a heavily protected gladiator with a fast but lightly equipped one.The spring, pin and catch plate are well-preserved on the reverse. Brooches were an important element of Roman dress, used to fasten clothing but they also served as dress accessories in their own right. Thousands of different types and subtypes of Roman brooches are attested, and they seem to have played an important role in Roman people’s self-expression. This beautiful item may have once belonged to a gladiator, his trainer or perhaps an eager fan. For more information on Roman Brooches see Richard Hattatt. 2000. A Visual Catalogue of Richard Hattatt's Ancient Brooches. Oxbow Books. Excellent condition. Size: L:38mm / W:17mm ; 4.9g; Provenance: Property of a London gallery, previously in old British collection formed in the 1970s.
Lot 283
700-1100 AD, Viking Age. A heavy silver 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 Beastâ€), 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: L:30mm / W:30mm ; 19.2g; Provenance: From an old British collection, acquired on the UK art market in the 1990s.
Lot 285
712-30 BC, Late Period/Ptolemaic. A beautiful restrung faience necklace comprising multi-coloured discoid and tubular beads as well as a beautiful Taweret amulet showing the goddess depicted as a pregnant with the head of a hippopotamus. Taweret, known as ‘The Great One’, was believed to be the goddess of childbirth and the protector of women and children. This amulet may have been worn by a pregnant woman to deflect evil spirits and to call forth Taweret’s protection. Good condition. Wearable Size: L:274mm / W:mm ; 8g; Provenance: Important London collection of Ancient art; formed in 1970s then passed by descent.
Lot 291
C. 224 to 651 AD. Sassanian. Gold ring with a D-shaped loop into which is set a red gem intaglio bearing a a double portriat of two kings. Seals were used commonly throughout the Sassanian empire which ruled from Afghanistan to Iraq during the third to seventh centuries AD. Seals were used by both members of the elite and ordinary people and bear motifs including portraits of the owner and mythical beings. They were used both to sign official documents and worn around the neck to protect against evil spirits and magic. Superb condition. Wearable.Size: D: 19.1mm / US: 9 1/8 / UK: S; 5.2g; Provenance: From an old British collection, acquired on the UK art market in the 1990s.
Lot 3
Ca. 618 - 907 AD. Chinese Tang Dynasty. An elegant hollow-moulded terracotta horse. This horse is modelled in a stretched pose, captured mid-action as it bites at its hind leg. The horse’s anatomy is rendered in great detail, especially in regards to the tendons of raised hind leg. The tail is depicted docked and bound in the traditional fashion. The creme- coloured pigment of the horse is still vibrant, as are the oranges and reds used to pick out the horses mane and tack. The horse's trappings, include elaborate harness with dangling tassels, a bridle wth matching tassels as well as a saddle blanket and saddle. The saddle blanket is modelled with crosshatching to imitate quilting while the saddle is highly decorated with the uppermost layer modelled to represent an orange cloth cover, whilst the under panel showcases a striped motif. Horses were an important status symbol during the Tang ‘golden age’. They were the rewards of victorious military campaigns which lead to imperial stability and wealth. Indeed, the Tang emperors often described their favourite horses in detail commenting on their colouration, conformation and temperament. This piece has been precisely dated having undergone Thermo Luminescence analysis by Ralf Kotalla, an independent German Laboratory. The samples collected date the piece to the period reflected in its style, whilst also showing no modern trace elements. Its TL certificate with full report will also accompany this lot. Excellent condition. Size: L:490mm / W:530mm ; 12.95kg; Provenance; Property of a Central London gallery, acquired from an established English collection; formerly acquired in Hong Kong, Hollywood Antique Center in the early 1990s.
Lot 313
100-200 AD. Roman. A bronze zoomorphic brooch in the form of a duck in flight, holding a branch in its mouth. The duck bears engraved dot-in-circle motifs on its body and tail; the catch plate is still visible on the reverse. Brooches were an important element of Roman dress, used to fasten clothing but they also served as dress accessories in their own right. Thousands of different types and subtypes of Roman brooches are attested, and they seem to have played an important role in Roman people’s self-expression. For more information on Roman brooches see Richard Hattatt. 2000. A Visual Catalogue of Richard Hattatt's Ancient Brooches. Oxbow Books. Good condition. Size: L:32mm / W:43mm ; 7g; Provenance: From an old British collection, acquired on the UK art market in the 1990s.
Lot 32
C. 3rd millennium BC. Indus Valley Civilisation. An polychrome vessel with a globular body, flat base, tapering neck and short outward curving rim. The uppermost register features an intricate red, greend and black geometric pattern under which are situated a band of polychrome fish in the same colours. The middlemost register features a series of zebu bulls with characteristic hump and curving horns separated by birds all in a polychrome palette. Below the zebu is another geometric band underneath which is a polychrome pride of lions. The Indus Valley Civilisation was an important Bronze Age culture which arose in c. 3300 BC and lasted until c. 1300, though its heyday, to which this ceramic vessel belongs, was in the 3rd millennium BC. The bull, with its hump and powerful horns, is a recurring motif in the Indus Valley, appearing on painted pottery like this example but also on figurines and stamps. The animal may represent the leader of a herd, who is able to protect his followers, or it could be a reflection of the bull’s importance in religious sacrifice. Cf. N. Satyawadi, 1994. Proto-Historic Pottery of the Indus Valley Civilisation: Study of Painted Motifs, New Delhi. Excellent condition; Size: L:560mm / W:400mm ; 12.9kg; Provenance: Important London collection of Ancient art; formed in 1970-80s then passed by descent.
Lot 338
c. 1000-1100 AD. Viking age. A beautiful bronze ring with a D-shaped hoop and an octagonal bezel bearing incised decoration in the form of a hunter and a dragon, probably Sigurd and Fáfnir. 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. The wearable reminder of this myth would have inspired bravery in Viking warriors. Good condition; wearable.Size: D: 19.51mm / US: 9 5/8 / UK: T; 11.1g; Provenance: Property of a professional London art expert; obtained from an old British collection formed before 2000.
Lot 34
C. 3rd millennium BC. Indus Valley Civilisation. An ochre-coloured vessel with a globular body, flat base, and short outward curving rim. The exterior features painted decoration in black, red and green depicting two zebu bulls with characteristic hump and curving horns. They are separated by stylised geometric vegetation and framed by a simple lower linear border and an upper panel of waved motifs. The Indus Valley Civilisation was an important Bronze Age culture which arose in c. 3300 BC and lasted until c. 1300, though its heyday, to which this ceramic vessel belongs, was in the 3rd millennium BC. The bull, with its hump and powerful horns, is a recurring motif in the Indus Valley, appearing on painted pottery like this example but also on figurines and stamps. The animal may represent the leader of a herd, who is able to protect his followers, or it could be a reflection of the bull’s importance in religious sacrifice. Cf. N. Satyawadi, 1994. Proto-Historic Pottery of the Indus Valley Civilisation: Study of Painted Motifs, New Delhi. Excellent condition; Size: L:180mm / W:220mm ; 1.55g; Provenance: From an old British collection of Asian Art formed in the 1990 on the UK and European art market.
Lot 349
c. 900-1100 AD. Viking age. A rare silver viking pendant with highly stylised, curvilinear representations of a man and a dragon representing Sigurd slaying Fáfnir. 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. The wearable reminder of this myth would have inspired bravery in Viking warriors. Good condition; Size: L:33mm / W:27mm ; 8.3g; Provenance: Property of a North London gentleman; previously acquire on the UK/European art market in the 1980s.
Lot 351
100-300 AD. Roman. A silver pendant in the shape of a heart with an applied strap suspension loop with ribbing. The plate is decorated with an applied standing Cupid. Cupid is depicted naked with one hand resting by his side and another at his brow; he is framed within an ellipse, flanked by small applied disks and inscribed in an oval border; grape motifs appear above this border to the left and right. In Roman myth, Cupid is the god of desire, erotic love, attraction and affection; perhaps this piece was once a lover’s gift. Excellent condition; professionally restrung; wearable.Size: L:32mm / W:22mm ; 7.7g; Provenance: Private Kent collection, formed in the 1980-90s on the UK art market.
Lot 368
700-1100 AD, Viking Age. A fine silver bracelet comprised of a single strand of silver with one terminal shaped into a truncated lozenge and decorated with incised lines forming a detailed snake's head. The other terminal is shaped into a crown-esque bauble. In Norse mythology, Jormungand (pronounced “YOUR-mun-gand;†Old Norse Jörmungandr, “Great Beastâ€), 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. Excellent condition, wearable.Size: L:72mm / W:85mm ; 78.8g; Provenance: Private Kent collection, formed in the 1980s on the UK art market.
Lot 371
700-1000 AD. Viking age. An iron sword with a long, doubled-edged blade, culminating in a point and a wide, broad, tapering guard and circular pommel, corresponding broadly to Petersen’s Type W. The sword was an elite weapon during the Viking period, and only the most well-off warriors - the cavalry - would have been able to afford one. Such swords were used both by the Vikings and Khazars. The elite status of swords during the Viking age is made clear both by their presence in some of the richest graves as well as a law of Charlemagne, the Holy Roman Emperor, which requires soldiers who could afford to maintain a horse to be equipped with a sword. Excellent condition; on a custom stand. See Petersen, Jan (1919). De Norske Vikingesverd. Kristiania.Size: L:620mm / W:142mm ; 690g; Provenance: Property of a London gallery, previously in old British collection formed in the 1980s.
Lot 388
C. 100–300 AD. A socketed iron spearhead comprising a triangulat blade with raised midrib. Spearhead of this type were a key part of the Roman cavalry’s equipment and can be seen in use on many Roman monuments such as Trajan’s Column, and the Arch of Constantine. It is partially thanks to this type of spear that Rome was able to control an empire that reached from north-western Europe to the Near East and encompassed all the lands of the Mediterranean. For more information on Roman weaponry in general see Bishop and Coulston 2005, “Roman Military Equipment from the Punic Wars to the Fall of Rome.“ Good condition.Size: L:310mm / W:28mm ; 215g; Provenance: Property of a London gallery, previously in old British collection formed in the 1980s.
Lot 389
C. 100-300 AD. Roman. An iron pilum spear head with a barbed, triangular blade, and a long, narrow neck, and a robust flaring socket. Pila were a key part of Roman military equipment and were used by the empire’s legionaries as throwing weapons preceding a charge which ended in close quarters combat. It is partially thanks to this type of spear that Rome was able to control an empire that reached from north-western Europe to the Near East and encompassed all the lands of the Mediterranean. For more information on Roman weaponry in general see Bishop and Coulston 2005, “Roman Military Equipment from the Punic Wars to the Fall of Rome.“ Excellent condition; on a custom stand.Size: L:202mm / W:37mm ; 100g; Provenance: Property of a London gallery, previously in old British collection formed in the 1980s.
Lot 396
c. 900-1100 AD. Viking age. An iron axe head comprising a short blade, elongated, downward-angled check and poll with a rounded socket. A small hook, probably to allow the user to grab and pull opponents’ shields, sits just below the place where the axe head’s poll and cheek meet. The era known as the Viking age lasted for more than 300 years, from the late 8th century to the late 11th century. The history of the Vikings is closely linked to their role as masters of the sea. They were feared as fierce and ruthless raiders. Further information on Viking axes can be found in Arbman, H. Birka I: Die Gräber, Uppsala. Excellent condition; on a custom stand.Size: L:100mm / W:218mm ; 1.3g; Provenance: From an old British collection formed in the 1990s; previously acquired in Germany.
Lot 413
C. 100-200 AD. Roman. An iron Pompeii type gladius blade with parallel cutting edges, a triangular tip and a tang. The gladius was a key part of Roman military equipment and were used by the empire’s legionaries in close quarters combat. It is partially thanks to this short sword that Rome was able to control an empire that reached from north-western Europe to the Near East and encompassed all the lands of the Mediterranean. For more information on Roman weaponry in general see Bishop and Coulston 2005, “Roman Military Equipment from the Punic Wars to the Fall of Rome.“ Good condition. Size: L:665mm / W:48mm ; 535g; Provenance: Property of a professional London art expert; obtained from an old British collection formed before 2000.
Lot 417
C. 900 AD. Viking age. A medieval Scandinavian pointed knife with tapering blade and original bone handle comprising a cylinder of bone decorated with four registers separated by clearly delineated bands. The register closest to the knife’s blade comprises a cross formed of scored lines and dot-in-circle motifs; the two central registers display chevrons and dot-in-circle motifs and the register furthest from the knife features a curve-armed swastika. The knife comes with a silver scabbard or sheath cover made up of a hammered sheet with repoussé geometric motifs. The leather parts of the sheath have not survived. Knives were a vital part of everyday life in the Viking world, where forks were not used, and everyone had to carry their own knife, both for self-defence and for eating. The item is extremely well preserved and has been professionally cleaned; it comes on a custom-made stand. Size: L:206mm / W:20mm ; 55g; Provenance: From an old British collection formed in the 1990s; previously acquired in Germany.
Lot 426
C. 100-300 AD. Roman. A large socketed iron pilum spear head with a pyramidal blade and twisted neck. Pila were a key part of Roman military equipment and were used by the empire’s legionaries as throwing weapons preceding a charge whichended in close quarters combat. It is partially thanks to this type of spear that Rome was able to control an empire that reached from north-western Europe to the Near East and encompassed all the lands of the Mediterranean. For more information on Roman weaponry in general see Bishop and Coulston 2005, “Roman Military Equipment from the Punic Wars to the Fall of Rome.“ Good condition.Size: L:683mm / W:30mm ; 425g; Provenance: Property of a London gallery, previously in old British collection formed in the 1970s.
Lot 427
C. 100-300 AD. Roman. A large iron pilum spear head with a pyramidal blade and robust, flaring socket. Pila were a key part of Roman military equipment and were used by the empire’s legionaries as throwing weapons preceding a charge whichended in close quarters combat. It is partially thanks to this type of spear that Rome was able to control an empire that reached from north-western Europe to the Near East and encompassed all the lands of the Mediterranean. For more information on Roman weaponry in general see Bishop and Coulston 2005, “Roman Military Equipment from the Punic Wars to the Fall of Rome.“ Good condition.Size: L:356mm / W:33mm ; 315g; Provenance: Property of a London gallery, previously in old British collection formed in the 1980s.
Lot 431
C. 100-300 AD. Roman. An iron pilum spear head with a barbed, triangular blade, and a long, narrow neck, and a robust flaring socket. Pila were a key part of Roman military equipment and were used by the empire’s legionaries as throwing weapons preceding a charge which ended in close quarters combat. It is partially thanks to this type of spear that Rome was able to control an empire that reached from north-western Europe to the Near East and encompassed all the lands of the Mediterranean. For more information on Roman weaponry in general see Bishop and Coulston 2005, “Roman Military Equipment from the Punic Wars to the Fall of Rome.“ Excellent condition.Size: L:258mm / W:33mm ; 140g; Provenance: Private London collection, formed since the 1970s on the UK and European art market.
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