Roman North African Redware Shard with Lion and Bestiarius
4th-5th century A.D. Of fine deep red clay, thin smooth slip on top, a large lioness leaping to right towards a bestiarius (animal fighter) armed with a hunting spear. Cf. Hayes, J.W., Roman Pottery in the Royal Ontario Museum,Toronto, 1976, fig.99, for a similar scene. 274 grams, 22 cm (8 5/8 in.).

Acquired 1960s-1990s. Late Alison Barker collection, a retired London barrister.

Possibly representing a hunt in the circus, i.e. a gladiatorial combat where bestiarii or venatores attacked wild animals.