1st-2nd century AD. A small silver statuette depicting a seated or kneeling female wearing a voluminous gown; the head with hair drawn back and fastened at the rear, the gown with high collar and pleated texture, the hands resting on the lap supporting a basket overflowing with fruit and fronds or ears of wheat; hollow to the underside. 15.2 grams, 29mm (1"). Property of a West Essex gentleman; formerly in a 1980s private collection. Female figures depicted bearing a cornucopia or basket of fruit and cereals are found in many Roman border provinces where they were worshipped as matres or matronae 'mother-figures' who provided their worshippers with a link to the homeland. They were conceived as divine beings who could be called upon for assistance in adversity. Their cults were often most popular with the military.