Five affordable antiquities that look fabulous

12 July 2024 It might sometimes seem that attractive antiquities are beyond the budget of the average collector. In fact, many pieces can be acquired at affordable prices.

A pair of fine Etuscan 21 ct gold earrings, estimated at £300-600.

Here are five items in the sale at Apollo Art Auctions on July 13-14 that look great and won’t break the bank.

1. Egyptian amulet

This polished Egyptian quartz amulet dates from 664-332BC and is semi-opaque and glows when it is backlit. The dreamy colouration and durability of this stone was a favourite with ancient jewellers.

2. Neolithic tool

This small polished Neolithic tool made from stone would have served as an axe head with its elongated body and a double-sided sharp blade. It dates from 5000-3000BC and is estimated at £150-300.

3. Celtic bracelet

Estimated at £150-300, this elegant Celtic bracelet crafted from cast-bronze dates from 600-400BC.

4. Roman unguentarium

An unguentarium is a small bottle typically found by archaeologists at Hellenistic and Roman sites, especially in cemeteries. Although also suited to storing and dispensing liquid and powdered substances, its most common use was probably as a container for oil. This unguentarium is Roman dating from 100-300AD and is guided at £150-300.