This elegant ribbed glass bowl exemplifies the artistry and technical skill of early Roman glassmakers. Crafted from a rare aubergine-hued soda‑lime glass, the bowl presents a gently flared rim and a rounded, harmonious profile with a lustrous, weathered surface that reveals a rich, multicolored iridescence developed through centuries of natural burial conditions. Measuring approximately [dimensions available on request], it is a compact yet striking domestic vessel.
The most striking feature of the bowl is its pronounced vertical ribbing, which encircles the body and lends a rhythmic, tactile quality to the form. Two finely incised concentric lines around the midsection provide an elegant counterpoint to the ribs, demonstrating careful finishing by hand. The surface iridescence, a product of long-term chemical interaction rather than modern treatment, enhances the deep aubergine tone and accentuates the delicate interplay of light across the exterior.
The workmanship shows mastery of early glass techniques—likely mold‑forming for the ribbed body with subsequent hand incision—resulting in crisp, well-executed details and a smoothly rendered rim. The uncommon deep purple color and strong iridescent sheen mark this piece as a particularly refined example of provincial Roman glass production.
Likely used for both every day and display purposes, this bowl would have served as a functional domestic vessel and possibly as a valued item within a household’s tableware. Its durable glass, sophisticated surface effects, and rare coloration reflect both the aesthetic sensibilities and material culture of the early Imperial period. Found in Sabaste; early Roman, ca. 1st century AD.REFERENCE #
Made of cartonnage – a medium consisting of layers of fibers – this mummy mask features a broad foliate and beaded collar. The wig is decorated with an open lotus blossom on the forehead and a scarab on the crown. The cheek straps and other details are painted in blue, purple, red, pink and green on a yellow ground.
REFERENCE #
SI_EG_1049
CIVILIZATION
Egyptian, 100 C.E.
SIZE
H. 33 cm
CONDITION
Some normal areas of edge losses, mostly minor; a few open splits and some areas of the interior have been strengthened with a linen backing. Some normal minor paint flakes. Lower front portion of wig is curled under; the very tip of the nose chipped.
PRICE
Sold
PROVENANCE
Private NYS collection, ex. Sotheby’s, Sale 5464, lot 250, May 30th, 1986
The front of the head is made from a mold and with a modeling tool reworked. The rear is Hollow. The sculpture shows a young female’s head in frontal orientation The even facial features women are very attractive. Expressive, with deep-set eyes coupled with strong eyelids. The pupils are clearly defined. A Strong protruding nose and full lips slightly opened. the chin has a gentle dimple. The symmetrically styled hair is parted in the middle, starting in soft curls that are combed back. On the cheeks is a single sleeping curls, and round earrings. The hairstyle is held by a headband. More curls on Top of the head are covered by a corona.
Cf .: St. Ohlig , antique cabinet, catalog no. 3 ( 1998) ” The Etruscans , a sign of life Civilized people . ” Fig.53 .
REFERENCE #
P 20753
CIVILIZATION
Greek, 400 B.C.E.
SIZE
H. 19.5 cm
CONDITION
A small chip on the tip of the nose, otherwise in Fine quality,
PRICE
Price available upon request
PROVENANCE
Private collection of Dr. Ludenscheid , acquired in the 1960s
The expressive face of this satyr reveals a right eye that is slightly lower than the left and a smirk carved purposefully askew. The satyr himself may be of Greek origin, yet this piece hails from central Asia, a result of the clash of cultures that arose out of Alexander the Great’s successful campaigns throughout the region. The result was a vast melting pot of culture, art and religion that spanned the subsequent Hellenistic era of Greek history, when Greek cultural influence and power was at its zenith in Europe and Asia. At the time, this satyr’s inlaid eyes and simple braided crown were uncommon in Asian art, particularly seen in Buddhist sculptures of Siddhartha from the Gandhara region of northern Pakistan. Other examples include the famous Parthian relief from Hatra, as well as the hair and head of the Peshawar Museum’s Bodhisattva. In the years after Alexander’s conquests, the region’s sculpture incorporated such elements in the intervening years as trade and technology increased the mingling of Eastern and Western cultures, creating new currents of art and thought that still inspire us to this day.
The round face is dominated by deep holes for eyes which were originally inlaid. The root of the nose is strongly furrowed, as too is the forehead above, its series of wavy grooves mirroring the curvature of the expressive high-arched brows. Prominent cheekbones, with fleshy, rounded cheeks below; under the broad nose, full sensuous lips with dimples. To either side of the face, long, pointed ears with deep auricles. A exuberant shock of curling locks, whose individual strands are articulated with incised lines, is parted in the middle to form an anastole and spreads outwards in three luxuriant strands to frame the face.
Similarly rendered locks entirely envelope the head, wig-like, in schematically arranged rows. The sinews of the neck form a pronounced V-shape. The combination of glowering features and unruly hair impart to the head an intensely expressive quality. Encircling the crown of the head is a rope-like wreath which served as the base for an attachment, its upper surface flat to accommodate another element. Head of a statue, in all likelihood an architectural support such as a Caryatid.
REFERENCE #
SI_GR_1003
CIVILIZATION
Central Asia, with influence from Ghandara, 200 B.C.E. – 100 B.C.E.
A bronze Illyrian helmet with dark green patina. Tall skull with distinctly raised and stepped ridges, fastening hooks for the attachment of a crest at front and at back. Large face-opening surmounted by two ribs across the brow, long pierced cheek-pieces and flared neck-guard. A row of lenticular decorative pins around the perimeter.
REFERENCE #
WP_GR_1008
CIVILIZATION
Greek, 600 B.C.E.
SIZE
H. 23 cm
CONDITION
Some restorations at the crown, the face-opening and the nape
This Persian sword is a remarkable example of the technology and design that went into crafting an ancient piece of weaponry. The dark hue of this sword lends it an austere weight, while the thick ribs and large crescent of the hilt are an indication of the strength required to wield such a heavy object. The broad blade seems to be made not for bludgeoning as much as cutting, with the raised ridge that runs along its length adding force to its blows.
This is a piece that makes a forceful statement in any collection, especially for collectors looking for a simpler alternative to the overwrought designs of later civilizations. The ancient Persians were known for their battle prowess, and this weapon is a fine example as to the tools ancient warriors had at their disposal. This sword has been wonderfully restored and displays a brilliant luster that still gleams along its long blade.
This remarkable bronze weapon is a dagger or short sword from ancient Persia, specifically attributed to the Pre-Achaemenid Empire. During this period, the empire expanded extensively, establishing a formidable and centralized administrative structure that drove the production of luxurious and highly ornate high-status artifacts. Crafted by master smiths, this piece exemplifies the exceptional skill and artistry of Persian metallurgists, renowned for creating prestige items for the military forces.
The weapon features a distinctive strengthening spine, design element that facilitates both easier thrusting. The fine craftsmanship, intricate detailing, and functional design underscore its dual role as both a battlefield implement and a symbol of status and authority.
Ancient Roman bronze eagle statue (statuette) of a Roman eagle holding a crown in its beak showing finely detailed metalwork by the artist in the feathers, face and talons. The wings of the metal eagle are slightly raised from its side and the legs are close together set on thick talons.
The majestic eagle, being one of the traditional Roman symbols, stands atop a bronze orb which represents the dominion of Rome over the world. A simple crown of laurels hangs from the bird’s beak in a nod to the eagle’s close association with the royalty of ancient Rome.
The eagle, was a prominent symbol used in ancient Rome, especially as the standard of a Roman legion. A Roman legionaire known as an aquilifer, or eagle-bearer, was the standard bearer who carried this standard on Roman military conquests. Each Roman legion carried one eagle. The eagle was extremely important to the Roman army, beyond merely being a symbol of a legion. A lost standard was considered an extremely grave occurrence, and the Roman military often went to great lengths to both protect a standard and to recover it if lost.
For example, see the aftermath of the Battle of the Teutoburg Forest, where the Roman army spent decades attempting to recover the lost standards of three Roman legions. That’s why they are relatively small size, since a standard bearer in circumstances of danger will wrench the eagle from its staff and conceal it in the folds of his girdle.
The shape of this bronze shin guard or ‘greave’ is emphasized by the exaggeration of the anatomical muscular structure, on one side a deep crescent-shaped groove and a bulge indicates the position of the calf. The arched upper end protected the knee joint. Above the ankle, the outline of the plaque is rounded and slightly flared to allow for movement.
REFERENCE #
WP_GR_1010
CIVILIZATION
Greek, 600 B.C.E.
SIZE
H. 42 cm
CONDITION
Minor repairs for cracks, and some reinforcements done from the inside
PRICE
Price available upon request
PROVENANCE
Previously in a private Japanese collection since the 1970’s
This elegant alabaster bowl exemplifies the artistry and craftsmanship of ancient Mesopotamian artisans. Crafted from fine, translucent alabaster, the bowl features a rounded, symmetrical form with a smooth, polished surface that showcases the natural beauty of the stone. Measuring approximately 12 cm in diameter and 7 cm in height, it is a compact yet finely detailed vessel.
The most striking feature of the bowl is its decorative banding, which encircles its exterior. These bands are composed of carved lines and geometric motifs, adding a sense of rhythm and harmony to the piece. The craftsmanship demonstrates a mastery of stone carving techniques, with precise incisions and smooth finishes that highlight the skilled artisanship of the period.
This vessel likely served both functional and ceremonial purposes, possibly used in ritual offerings or as a display piece in a noble or religious setting. Its durable alabaster material and sophisticated decoration reflect the high status of its owner and the cultural importance of craftsmanship in ancient Mesopotamian society.
$2,000.00Original price was: $2,000.00.$1,850.00Current price is: $1,850.00.
Description
This commanding alabaster mace head exemplifies the artistry and technical skill of Egyptian stone‑workers of the Middle Bronze Age. Crafted from fine, dense alabaster, the piece presents a rounded, slightly pear‑shaped mass terminating in a short, tapering socket for hafting; its surfaces are smoothly finished to reveal the stone’s subtle veining and a soft, satin-like luster. Measuring approximately [dimensions available on request], it is a compact yet powerfully rendered implement.
The most striking feature of the mace head is its sculptural silhouette and the careful modulation of form between the striking face and the haft socket, which together create a balanced, purposeful object. The workmanship demonstrates mastery of stone‑shaping techniques, with precise contouring and evidence of controlled tool work around the socket and perimeter. Minor surface abrasions and faint impact marks may be present, consistent with functional use, while surviving tool marks are minimal and secondary to the overall polished presentation.
This object likely served both practical and symbolic roles: employed as a percussive weapon in conflict or as a status emblem and ceremonial object signaling authority and power. The selection of alabaster—a prized material—speaks to the prominence of its owner and the value attributed to finely
This commanding alabaster mace head exemplifies the artistry and technical skill of Egyptian stone‑workers of the Middle Bronze Age. Crafted from fine, dense alabaster, the piece presents a rounded, slightly pear‑shaped mass terminating in a short, tapering socket for hafting; its surfaces are smoothly finished to reveal the stone’s subtle veining and a soft, satin-like luster. Measuring approximately [dimensions available on request], it is a compact yet powerfully rendered implement.
The most striking feature of the mace head is its sculptural silhouette and the careful modulation of form between the striking face and the haft socket, which together create a balanced, purposeful object. The workmanship demonstrates mastery of stone‑shaping techniques, with precise contouring and evidence of controlled tool work around the socket and perimeter. Minor surface abrasions and faint impact marks may be present, consistent with functional use, while surviving tool marks are minimal and secondary to the overall polished presentation.
This object likely served both practical and symbolic roles: employed as a percussive weapon in conflict or as a status emblem and ceremonial object signaling authority and power. The selection of alabaster—a prized material—speaks to the prominence of its owner and the value attributed to finely[/vc_column_text]
