Roman Janus-Headed Sceptre

1st century BC-1st century AD. A sceptre comprising a slender round-section iron rod and bronze handle with bulb to each end, the finial a janiform bust of two female faces each with curls to the sides, cucullus head-covering and diadem with plate to the brow; mounted on a custom-made stand. 2.1 kg total, 70.5cm including stand (27 3/4"). From an important London collection; previously with Bonhams, London, 13 April 2011, lot 149 (£10,000-£12,000); formerly in a private French collection, formed in the 1970s; accompanied by copies of the relevant Bonhams catalogue pages; this lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by AIAD certificate number no.163491-10069. The Latin word sceptrumfrom which we derive 'sceptre' is based on the Greek σκῆπτρον denoting a staff or walking-stick. The janiform female bust is unusual and may represent e.g. the priestesses of Vesta in Rome. [A video of this lot is available on TimeLine Auctions website]
Condition Report: Fine condition.