3rd century BC. A bronze ring with carinated hoop and conical shoulders decorated with deep volutes ending in scrolls around the bezel, set with an oval jasper intaglio gemstone bearing image of a warrior figure walking right, holding down sticks used to struck onto or beside an upturned vase. Cf. Ruseva-Slokoska, L., Roman Jewellery, Bulgaria, 1991, items 210-212 and 254-256, for the type; Chadour, A.B., Rings. The Alice and Louis Koch Collection, Leeds, 1994, item 46, for the typology of marching warrior; see also for discussion in Boardman, J. and Vollenweider, M.L., Catalogue of the Engraved Gems and Finger Rings I, Greek and Etruscan, Oxford, 1978. 20.74 grams, 33.86mm overall, 21.68mm internal diameter (approximate size British M 1/2, USA 6 1/4, Europe 13.09, Japan 12) (1 1/4"). From the late Alison Barker collection, a retired London barrister; from her collection formed 1960s-1990s. This typology of late Etruscan ring bezels was especially widespread, with slight variations, in the area of Todi. Boardman and Vollenweider identified a similar (but not identical) figure in carnelian with the image of Hercules (1978, no.230 p.55"). Fine condition, cleaned. A large wearable size.
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2nd century AD. A bronze ring with D-section hoop, expanding at the shoulders to an ellipsoidal bezel and set with an oval chalcedony gemstone engraved 'FILHTOU', 'of Filitos', over two lines in Greek. 8.99 grams, 26.24mm overall, 20.73mm internal diameter (approximate size British N 1/2, USA 6 3/4, Europe 14.35, Japan 13) (1"). Ex London, UK, collection, 1990s. Accompanied by an old cataloguing ticket. The inscription identifies the original owner. It was worn to convey the wearer's wealth and social standing, but also served a practical purpose; signet rings were used as seals to authenticate legal documents or letters. Very fine condition. A large wearable size.
5th-6th century AD. A stone bust edge carved in high relief on a roundel with beaded border, representing an imperial magistrate wearing a mantle (chlamys) fastened at the right shoulder and folded over the left shoulder leaving a long sleeved tunic visible, shaven face with almond-shaped eyes and incised pupils, long parted hair curled with the use of the Roman calamistrum. Cf. Daim, F., Ladstätter, S., Bizans Döneminde Ephesos, Istanbul, 2011, for the typology of sculptures; see Vermeule, C., ‘A Greek Theme and its survivals: the Ruler’s shield (tondo image) in Tomb and Temple’ in Proceedings of the American Philosophical Society, vol.109, No.6 (Dec.10, 1965), pp.361-397; Various, Il Museo delle civilta’ Anatoliche, Ankara, 1988; cf. Scrinari, V.S.N., Sculture Romane di Aquileia, Roma, 1972, figs.606-610. 490 grams, 10.7cm high (4 1/4"). From the late Alison Barker collection, a retired London barrister; from her collection formed 1960s-1990s. The representation of mythological characters and of high officials of the state inscribed in roundels (imagines clipeatae) was well-known in Roman art, originally derived from the Greek theme of the ruler’s shield in the tombs and temples. Splendid funerary imagines clipeatae of Roman Magistrates and citizens are preserved in the Museo Ostiense (Inv. 56), dated to the 1st-2nd centuries AD. Roundels with portrait busts are well known from Palmyra (MFA Boston, inv. no.10.78; Budapest, Fine Arts Museum, inv. no.8431), but wonderful specimens in bronze are also known from Banias (Syria, in Damascus Museum) and from Ankara (Trajanic bronze tondo from Roman Ancyra, see Various, 1988, p.157, fig.224"). These images were even more abundant in the late Empire: it is worth remembering the early Theodosian imago clipeata of a warrior in the Staatlichen Kunstsammlungen Dresden (Hm 305, late 4th century AD) or the 4th century sculptures of gods from Aquileia. Our imago clipeata could come from a sarcophagus or from a public or funerary monument on which the owner was represented, maybe together with his wife or family. Fine condition.
5th-8th century AD. A bronze amuletic circlet comprising a flat section bar and four roundels; each roundel with an impressed image or text including a nativity scene, nimbate figure between alpha and omega, and others; the bar with impressed lozenge motifs and rectangular panels with text 'A?IOC' (holy), 'Y?IA' (healthy) and others. 20 grams, 82mm wide (3 1/4"). Acquired in the late 1980s-early 1990s. Important North West London collection. Fine condition.
Saite Period, 26th Dynasty, 664-525 BC. A bronze cat modelled seated, its tail wrapped around one side of its body and resting on a front paw, wearing a pendant collar featuring a large udjat amulet, the sacred Eye of Horus, two socketted tenons below; mounted on a 1920's custom-made displayed stand. 445 grams total, 10.5cm high (15cm high including stand) (4 / 6"). Hagi Hessein, Cairo, Egypt, circa 1920s; said to be from Bubastis, the ancient Egyptian city in the Nile River delta north of Cairo. Accompanied by the printed business card (1920s) of 'Hagi Hessein Abd-el-Salaam. Address: Heret El-Zahar Opposite Shepheard’s Hotel Cairo. By Permission from the Egyptian Museum Cairo. Licence No 27. Everything Guaranteed', written description on reverse: 'One bronze Goddess of Baskt in the form of a cat, Goddess of Peace Truth Happiness this is the guarantee that the above object found at Bubastis on the Delta from 18th Dyn 11350 BC [sic] Price P.T. 1000 = £10', signed by the dealer H H Abd-el-Salam; also with descriptive note on Shepheard’s Hotel headed notepaper reiterating 'found in temple'. Private collection, 1976. Christie's, London, 25 October 2006, lot 180. Private collection of the late David Miller, a prominent Hertfordshire collector and numismatist. Accompanied by an old colour photograph and copies of the relevant Christie's catalogue pages. Accompanied by a cataloguing sheet by Egyptologist Peter Clayton. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by AIAD certificate number no.11041-182588. The cat was the most sacred animal in ancient Egypt and associated with the cat-headed goddess Bastet, daughter of Re. When represented in human form as a cat-headed female she usually holds a sistrum (a musical rattle) in her right hand with a supine cat on its top, and an aegis in her left. Small kittens are often shown at her feet. Her most important cult centre was at Bubastis (Tell Basta) in the north-east Delta. The site today is heavily ruined and the temple destroyed. Sir Flinders Petrie excavated at Bubastis and other nearby Delta sites in the 1880s. Tombs of some of the temple officials have been found nearby and vast cemeteries of mummified cat burials left as votive offerings; so many thousands were found that they were used locally as fuel. Since Petrie’s investigations the site has been abandoned and only in recent years have excavations begun to be undertaken. In painted nobles’ tombs at Thebes, a cat is often represented seated beneath the chair of the noble’s wife. In the 5th century BC, the Greek historian Herodotus wrote that the festival of Bastet at Bubastis was the most elaborate of all those in Egypt. The Roman geographer Strabo wrote that the cat was so revered in Egypt that an Egyptian dashed into his burning house to save the cat, then returned to rescue his family.[A video of this lot is available to view on Timeline Auctions Website.] Fine condition.
6th-7th century AD. A bronze finger ring with part of the D-section hoop remaining, large disc bezel bearing an incised central rectangle with saltire and chevron, surrounded by an inscription of twelve characters in Samaritan script. Cf. Guilhou, E., Catalogue of a Collection of Rings formed by the late E. Guilhou, Paris, 1912, item 841, for type. 2.66 grams, 20mm (3/4"). Acquired in the late 1980s-early 1990s. Important North West London collection. The Samaritans are an ethnic and religious sect whose traditions trace their origins in a northern Israelite kingdom which was overrun by the Assyrians in 722 BCE. Samaritans claim descent from Abraham through the biblical tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh. Their schism with mainstream Judaism took place at the end of the 4th century BC. Fair condition.
2nd millennium BC. A bronze harness ring comprising: a substantial D-section hoop with two radiating stag-heads with prominent antlers facing away from as canine modelled in the round with curled tail and pricked ears; two bulbs each with a bovine head displaying prominent recurved horns and bulging eyes; mounted on a custom-made display stand. Cf. Godard, F., The Art of Iran, London, 1965, item 18, for similar hoop with radiating animals. 149 grams, 11.7cm wide (180 grams total, 12cm including stand) (4 1/2 (4 3/4)"). London art market 1979. Property of a gentleman living in central London. [No Reserve] [A video of this lot is available to view on Timeline Auctions Website.] Fine condition.
13th-7th century BC. A bronze whetstone finial formed as a short socket with loop and ribbed panel above the lip, three curved necks ending in animal heads with gaping mouths; mounted on a custom-made stand. 85 grams, 72mm (116 grams total, 90mm including stand) (2 3/4 (3 1/2)"). London art market 1979. Property of a gentleman living in central London. [No Reserve] Fine condition.
2nd millennium BC. A bronze terminal for a whetstone in the form of an ibex with small triangular head, long recurved horns, large discoid eyes and lanceolate ears; the neck extending to a cast socket with everted rim to the mouth, forelegs folded back along the underside of the socket; the socket pierced for attachment; mounted on a custom-made display stand. Cf. Moorey, P.R.S., Ancient Bronzes From Luristan, London, 1974, pl.IV(C"). 78 grams, 96mm high (110 grams total, 11.5cm including stand) (3 3/4 (4 1/2)"). London art market 1979. Property of a gentleman living in central London. [No Reserve] Fine condition.
2nd-1st millennium BC. A bronze statuette modelled in the round as a stylised standing bull, crescentic horns tapering to a sharp point and detailing to the genitals, domed eyes and muzzle, the head held in a defensive position; mounted on a custom-made display stand. 128 grams, 99mm wide (185 grams total, 12cm wide including stand) (4 (4 3/4)"). Acquired before 1990. From an old German collection. With a UK gallery. Property of an English gentleman. [No Reserve] Fine condition.
7th-6th century BC. A hammered bronze fragment, possibly from a helmet, with an incised war scene depicting two victorious bearded soldiers in charge of four bound prisoners in front of a city with imposing Levantine style palatial structures; the first soldier leading the prisoners carrying a spear, bow, a short sword and a circular embossed shield on his back, the waist protected by a wide belt and wearing a long sleeveless garment, pulling the rope that the prisoners are bound with; the second soldier depicted in a similar fashion, holding the end of the rope; the four prisoners marching in pairs, dressed as dignitaries in full length fringed tunics, fillet with earflaps to the head; mounted on a custom-made display stand. See Parrot, J., Gli Assiri, Milano, 1961; Directorate General of Antiquities, Assyrian Costumes, Les Costumes Assyriens, Baghdad, 1971; Healy, M., The Ancient Assyrians, London, 1991; Barron, A.E., Late Assyrian Arms and Armour, Art versus Artefact, Toronto, 2010; Curtis, J., An examination of late Assyrian metalwork with special reference to Nimrud, Oxford, 2013. 11.6 grams, 10.5cm wide (40 grams total, 10.5cm wide including stand) (4 (4)"). Private family collection formed in London, mid 1980s to early 1990s. Accompanied by an archaeological report by military specialist Dr. Raffaele D'Amato. Fair condition.
Northern Wei Dynasty, 386-534 AD. A gilt-bronze figure, influenced by the Gandharan style or that of the neighbouring Uddiyana region, depicting two Buddhas (Shakyamuni and Prabhutaratna) kneeling on a tiered base with flaming aureole behind. See Dr. Naiki, S., Similarities and Differences in Gandharan Sculptures Among Regions, Thursday 22nd to Friday 23rd March 2018, The Geography of Gandharan Art: 2nd Workshop of the Gandhara Connections Project, Classical Art Research Centre, University of Oxford. 341 grams, 14.5cm (5 3/4"). Buckingham Collection, early 1960s to 1970s. Late Nik Douglas (1944-2012), renowned author, curator and Asian art expert. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by AIAD certificate number no.11075-184861. Gandhara was the principal gateway through which Buddhism spread to China. Academic research conducted after the death of Nik Douglas (above) explains that Gandharan sculpture has been found in neighbouring regions, such as in Uddiyana. Sculpture from the Gandharan and Uddiyana regions has similar characteristics and as a result has often remained undifferentiated. As a result of this recent research however, it is becoming more feasible to identify distinctions between the sculpture of these different regions.[A video of this lot is available to view on Timeline Auctions Website.] Fine condition.
Northern Wei Dynasty, 386-534 AD. A gilt-bronze figure, influenced by the Gandharan style or that of the neighbouring region of Uddiyana, of Shakyamuni Buddha modelled with hands clasped together in dhyana mudra and seated in dhyanasana posture on a throne flanked by two roaring lions with flaming aureole; robes with U-shaped folds in the Mathuran style and the head with a prominent ushnisha, incised inscription to the reverse in four columns, translating approximately as: a 'dedication by Kang Shen requesting a peaceful life for his family', with Sutra on front legs of four-legged podium. See Dr. Naiki, S., Similarities and Differences in Gandharan Sculptures Among Regions, Thursday 22nd to Friday 23rd March 2018, The Geography of Gandharan Art: 2nd Workshop of the Gandhara Connections Project, Classical Art Research Centre, University of Oxford. Exhibited at the major exhibition ‘The Buddha Image: Out of Uddiyana’, Tibet House, 22 West 15th Street, New York, 16 September - 20 October 2010, extended to 16 November and again to 7 January 2011, Buckingham collections, exhibit TB007, p.59 & 160. 211 grams, 14cm (5 1/2"). Buckingham Collection, from the early 1960s to 1970s. Late Nik Douglas (1944-2012), renowned author, curator and Asian art expert. Accompanied by copies of the relevant exhibition catalogue pages. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by AIAD certificate number no.11132-168638. Gandhara was a principal gateway through which Buddhism spread to China. Academic research conducted after the death of Nik Douglas (above) explains that Gandharan sculpture has been found in neighbouring regions, such as in Uddiyana. Sculpture from the Gandharan and Uddiyana regions has similar characteristics and as a result has often remained undifferentiated. As a result of this recent research however, it is becoming more feasible to identify distinctions between the sculpture of these different regions.[A video of this lot is available to view on Timeline Auctions Website.] Fine condition.
Later Yan Dynasty, 384-407 AD. A gilt-bronze statuette, with Gandharan stylistic influence, featuring Buddha standing against an aureole and lotus-flower nimbus, on a lotus podium with flared legs, flanked by attendants or donors; hatched ornament to the podium, incised text here and to the reverse of the flaming aureole which translates approximately as: 'A disciple of Buddha had this made to keep his family safe', and the 'Buddha Disciple' with the years for Later Yan (384-407 [389]) to the right. Exhibited at the major exhibition ‘The Buddha Image: Out of Uddiyana’, Tibet House, 22 West 15th Street, New York, 16 September - 20 October 2010, extended to 16 November and again to 7 January 2011, Buckingham collections, exhibit TB011, p.161; accompanied by copies of the relevant exhibition catalogue pages which dates the piece on artistic grounds to the Early Wei period, circa 5th century AD, and a transcription of the Chinese characters inscribed on the piece; recent translation of the previously undeciphered inscription suggests a more precise date range of 384-407 (389), Later Yan era. 235 grams, 13.4cm (5 1/4"). Buckingham Collection, from the early 1960s to 1970s. Late Nik Douglas (1944-2012), renowned author, curator and Asian art expert. Accompanied by copies of the relevant exhibition catalogue pages. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by AIAD certificate number no.11049-168637. Gandhara was a principal gateway through which Buddhism spread to China, with the connection to Gandharan Buddhist statuary and sculpture evident in the style of this piece.[A video of this lot is available to view on Timeline Auctions Website.] Fine condition.
c.5th-6th century AD. A substantial bronze figure of Buddha Shakyamuni standing facing on a hollow-formed bell-shaped podium wearing a loose uttariya robe gathered in hand at the left hip in the 'Indo-Greek' manner, the right hand raised in the abhaya gesture of reassurance; the facial expression serene with narrow eyes possibly inlaid with silver, the hair piled into the ushnisha style with tiers of tight curls; to the rear, a separate mandorla or aureole with rim of openwork flames. See Dr. Naiki, S., Similarities and Differences in Gandharan Sculptures Among Regions, Thursday 22nd to Friday 23rd March 2018, The Geography of Gandharan Art: 2nd Workshop of the Gandhara Connections Project, Classical Art Research Centre, University of Oxford. Exhibited at the major exhibition ‘The Buddha Image: Out of Uddiyana’, Tibet House, 22 West 15th Street, New York, 16 September - 20 October 2010, extended to 16 November and again to 7 January 2011, Buckingham collections, exhibit GMB035, p.134; no.238, p.72, & for a photograph of this piece at the exhibition see p.174. 2.1 kg, 39cm (15 1/4"). Richard Kixmiller collection, USA, 1976-1977. Buckingham Collection, early 1960s to 1970s. Late Nik Douglas (1944-2012), renowned author, curator and Asian art expert. Accompanied by copies of the relevant Tibet House exhibition catalogue pages. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by AIAD certificate number no.11135-184862. Gandhara was the principal gateway through which Buddhism spread to China. Academic research conducted after the death of Nik Douglas (above) explains that Gandharan sculpture has been found in neighbouring regions, such as in Uddiyana. Sculpture from the Gandharan and Uddiyana regions has similar characteristics and as a result has often remained undifferentiated. As a result of this recent research however, it is becoming more feasible to identify distinctions between the sculpture of these different regions.[A video of this lot is available to view on Timeline Auctions Website.] Fine condition.
c.5th century AD. A bronze lamp or incense burner base comprising a low tripod with claw feet, broad stem with median flange, socket with flange rim to accept the fuel; separate bowl with everted rim. 610 grams, 13.5cm high (5 1/4"). London art market 1979. Property of a gentleman living in central London. [No Reserve] Fair condition.
14th-15th century AD. A bronze lamp or incense burner comprising a low tripod with carinated edges and flared feet, narrow stem and deep bowl with everted rim and three pierced lugs to the inner edge of the rim. Cf. Fehérvári, G., Islamic Metalwork of the Eighth to the Fifteenth Century in the Keir Collection, London, 1976, item 97, for type. 635 grams, 14cm high (5 1/2"). London art market 1979. Property of a gentleman living in central London. [No Reserve] Fair condition.
12th-14th century AD. A bronze candleholder comprising a tapering cylindrical base with circumferential ribs, slender stem with median rib, bell-shaped cup, three old stock number labels to the base. Cf. von Gladiss, A. Glanz und Substanz. Metallarbeitung in der Sammlung des Museums für Islamische Kunst, Berlin, 2012, items 58, 59, for type. 870 grams, 26cm high (10 1/4"). Private collection of Mrs. W.G. Elias Vaes (1908 - 2002), Rotterdam, The Netherlands. Elias Vaes stock number 212 / 208. Property of a gentleman living in central London. [No Reserve] Fine condition.
12th-14th century AD. A bronze vessel base composed of a flat-bottomed, U-shaped body with broad, everted shoulder, collared tubular neck, C-section stem and splayed foot. 940 grams, 12cm high (4 3/4"). North London gentleman, in storage since the 1970s. Property of a West London gentleman. [No Reserve] Fine condition.
13th-14th century AD. A bronze lamp comprising a globular body with lateral flange handles, an openwork hinged and domed lid with knop handle, D-section channelled handle with pierced upper panel and leaf-shaped flange finial. Cf. von Gladiss, A., Glanz und Substanz. Metallarbeitung in der Sammlung des Museums für Islamische Kunst, Berlin, 2012, item 26, for type. 540 grams, 23cm wide (9"). London art market 1979. Property of a gentleman living in central London. [No Reserve] Fair condition.
4th century BC. A bronze helmet of Chalcidian typology, Kunze Gruppe VIII, the bowl formed from a single piece of metal, slightly peaked with carinated ridge around the top, long nasal and flared rim; moulded band restored around the eyes, the cheek-pieces with restored edges, connected to the bowl by a two-part hinge; traces of tinned surface. See Pflug, H., 'Chalkidische Helme' in: Antike Helme, RGZM Monographien 14, Mainz, 1988, pp. 137—150; Chernenko, E.V., The Scythians 700-300 BC, Hong Kong, 1998; Hixenbaugh, R., Ancient Greek Helmets, a complete guide and catalogue, New York, 2019, figs.X278, X279. 954 grams, 28cm wide (11"). Private collection of Mr M.B., Mainz, Germany, 1990s. Property of a London businessman. Accompanied by an archaeological report by military specialist Dr Raffaele D'Amato. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by AIAD certificate number no.11112-183016. Although some specimens have been found in Macedonia, Thrace, Continental Greece (Tithorea, Kalapodi, fragment of helmet of type V, today at the Museum of Lamia, inv. No. B20) and South Italy, the Chalcidian Black Sea group has mainly been found in the area of Greek colonisation and trade, especially around the territories of the actual Crimea and to the East in what is now Georgia and Abkhazia. By the 5th century BC, many of the Scythian kings and nobles opted for ‘foreign’ style Greek helmets and greaves – possibly as a show of prosperity and military richness. Archaeological excavations that pertain to this period have unearthed over 60 fascinating specimens of Greek helmets (mainly of Corinthian and Chalcidian-Attic types) that were actually manufactured in mainland Greece and then shipped across the Black Sea into the Scythian heartlands via the wealthy Greek Bosphoran colonies. The employment of Scythian mercenaries by the Greek cities, also favoured the cultural interchange with the Steppe warriors from a military point of view, with the result that Scythians and Meotians, and then Sarmatians, increasingly purchased or obtained helmets and other weaponry from the Greeks, often remodelling them after their own fashion. Fair condition, restored.
4th-1st century BC. A bronze Scythian, Sarmatian or Sindo-Meothic helmet comprising a rounded bowl with repoussé three-band crest running from the brow over the top to the rear and with lateral scrolls at the brow, a flat circumferential band to the brow and temples with arches above the eyes and a small nasal; two D-shaped side-panels hinged at the upper edge and with a scalloped forward edge; fixing points for a separate crest on the upper face; mounted on a custom-made stand. See Rabinovich, B. Z., Trudy Otdela istorii pervobytnoi kul’tury Gosudarstvennogo Ermitazha (Works of the Department of history of prehistoric culture of the State Hermitage) I, Leningrad, 1941, pp.99-171; Bottini, A. et al., Antike Helme. Sammlung Lipperheide und Andere Bestände des Antikenmuseums Berlin, Mainz, 1988, pp.137-150; Erlikh, V. R., Rossiiskaia Arkheologiia (Russian Archaeology) (3), 1996, pp. 176—179 (in Russian); Chernenko, E.V., The Scythians 700-300 BC, Hong Kong, 1998; Shevchenko, N. F., Zaitsev, Yu. P., Mordvintseva V. I. in Vestnik drevnei istorii (Bulletin of Ancient History) (1), 2011, pp.115-152 (in Russian); ????????? ?. ?., '????? ??????????? ??????? ?? ????????? ?????? (Sarmatian Age Helmets from Eastern Europe) ', in Stratum Plus, n. 4, 2014, pp.249-284; Negin, A.E., Negin, A. E., 'Pozdnerimskie shlemy s prodol'nym grebnem', in Germania-Sarmatia II, Kaliningrad-Kursk, 2010, pp.343–58. 550 grams, 25cm (2.5 kg, 42.5cm including stand) (9 3/4 (16 3/4)"). From the late Alison Barker collection, a retired London barrister; from her collection formed early 1960s-1990s. Accompanied by an archaeological expertise of military specialist Dr. Raffaele D’Amato. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by AIAD certificate number no.11064-184360. The cultural interchange and the military contacts between the Nomads of Kuban and the Hellenic people allowed the Sindo-Meothic noblemen to equip themselves with such beautiful defensive equipment. Another helmet of the same type, close to the Chalcidian-Attic type, with two ram-shaped plates protruding on the front, with spiral decorations on their surface, was found near the Mezmay village in Kuban. A similar helmet, most likely produced by the same workshop, is a specimen published by A.E. Negin, belonging to the Puskin Fine Arts Museum of Moscow, originally in the collection of S. Karakowskij (Negin, 2010, p.354 no.6"). Fine condition, usage wear.
8th-7th century BC. A substantial sheet-bronze belt-plate comprising an ellipsoidal body with raised edges, engraved with scrolled motifs with stylised ducks at the centre, a cross within a roundel, concentric circles and other geometric forms; one side tapering to a rectangular-section hook, the other to a rectangular arm, the upper and lower edges bent over to form a grip to the reverse, two circular piercings for fastening to leather. See Marzatico, F. and Gleirscher, P. ed., Guerrieri Principi ed Eroi fra il Danubio e il Po dalla Preistoria all'Alto Medioevo, Trento, 2004, p.345, fig.9, fig.5, p.352; see Cateni, G. (ed.), Etruschi di Volterra, capolavori dei grandi musei Europei, Milano, 2007; see D’Amato, R., Salimbeti, A., The Etruscans, 9th-2nd centuries BC, Oxford, 2018, p.27, and reconstruction in pl.C, p.19. 255 grams, 24cm long (9 1/2"). UK art market. Property of a Woolwich collector. Accompanied by an archaeological report by Dr Raffaele D’Amato. Villanovan and Italic warriors sometimes wore wide, elliptical bronze plates as body defence on their waist belts (cincturae.) The pierced holes would have been for attachment to a leather belt acting in a similar fashion to a breastplate. Although such protection was known during the Villanovan I period, most examples with contexts came from tombs of the Villanovan II period. Most of the Italic specimens come from Central and Southern Etruria (Corneto), but examples are also known from the Po Valley. They also served as symbols of rank, as is visible on the marvellous statues of the princes of Casale Marittimo, near Volterra (Cateni, 2007, pp.102ff.) [No Reserve] [A video of this lot is available to view on Timeline Auctions Website.] Fine condition.
8th-7th century BC. A double-edged copper-alloy blade with flat ridges on both sides tapering to the point and broadening towards the guard, semi-circular blade with a round handle decorated with two 'eyes' on the guard, pommel made of bronze. Cf. Gorelik, M., Weapons of Ancient East, IV millennium BC-IV century BC, Saint Petersburg, 2003, pl.XIV, nos.38-39, from Luristan. 316 grams, 48.5cm (19 1/4"). Abelita family collection, 1980-2015. Moorey, Gordon and Khorasani created a classification of bladed weapons, according to which daggers were edged weapons not greater than 36cm in length, dirks (short swords) were between 36cm and 50cm in length, and swords are edged weapons greater than 50cm in length. Fine condition.
12th-10th century BC. A bronze flange hilted dagger with limestone inlay forming a lobed handle, blade with a broad midrib tapering to the point. See Khorasani, M.M., Arms and Armour from Iran - The Bronze Age to the End of the Qajar Period, Tübingen, 2006, p.381, cat.13, for the type; a similar specimen with the inlay preserved as well is published in Musee' Cernuschi, Bronzes de Luristan, enigmes de l'Iran Ancien, IIIe-Ier millenaire av. J.C., Paris, 2008, p.86, nos.28-29. 235 grams, 34.6cm long (13 3/4"). Private family collection formed in London, mid 1980s to early 1990s. The dagger belongs to type IIIb of the Khorasani and Medveskaya classification. Fine condition. Very rare in this state of preservation.
12th-11th century BC. A bronze combed axe, the collar of the shaft reinforced by four protuberances on the heel, curved blade adorned with an arrow in relief, on the edge two mouldings extend from the blade towards the collar. See Musee' Cernuschi., Bronzes de Luristan, enigmes de l'Iran Ancien, IIIe-Ier millenaire av. J.C., Paris, 2008, p.44, fig.1,3; p.97, no.45, for similar types. 302 grams, 22cm wide (8 3/4"). Private family collection formed in London, mid 1980s to early 1990s. Fine condition.
13th-17th century BC. An unusual bronze axehead with a narrow shaft leading to a bill-shaped blade, the shaft decorated with a series of incised lines enclosing a triangular pattern and volutes connected by horizontal waved lines. Cf. Gorelik, M., Weapons of Ancient East, IV millennium BC-IV century BC, Saint Petersburg, 2003 (in Russian), pl.XXI, no.84. 88 grams, 81mm wide (3 1/4"). Private family collection formed in London, mid 1980s to early 1990s. A similar axe has been found in Northern Afghanistan. In this region, artefacts from the 2nd millennium BC include axes, sickles, mirrors and pins and heads of various animals. The occurrence of fortresses and arms indicates an uneasy epoch of hostilities and conflicts. This factor accelerated an institutionalisation of power and development of military prowess. Fine condition.
5th century AD. A double-edged spatha with parallel-sided iron blade and pointed tip, battle nicks to both cutting edges; the hilt and tang extending over the blade as a tight-fitting sleeve; accompanied by an oblate chalcedony pommel, five bronze scabbard guttering elements and a silver buckle for the suspension strap. See Dennis, G., Maurice’s Strategikon, handbook of Byzantine Military Strategy, University of Pennsylvania Press, 1984; Lebedinski, I., Armes et guerriers Barbares au temps des grandes invasions IVème au Vième siècle après J.C., Paris, 2001, p.118, for a similar example from Chapka-Tserkovnyi Kholm (Abkhazia); Kazanski, M., Mastykova, A., Tsibilium II, La nécropole apsile de Tsibilium, l’étude du site, BAR, 2007, see swords on pl.6, no.27 (Chapka-Cerkovnyj Holm), pl.13, no.14 (Anuhva); pl.23, no.17 (buckle"). 850 grams total, 3.2-92cm (1 1/4 - 36 1/4"). Acquired 1971-1972. Property of a London, UK, collector; from his father's collection. Accompanied by an archaeological report by military specialist Dr. Raffaele D’Amato. Accompanied by a positive metal test number 183791/HM1461 from an Oxford specialist. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by AIAD certificate number no.11086-183791. This sword belongs to the group of spathae of late Roman typology, widespread among the Germanic and Abkhazian foederati, and garrison troops of the Northern Black Sea and Caucasus. These swords could have been the prototypes of the Eastern Roman spathia, classified in the Strategikon of Pseudo-Mavrikios as Herouliskia (Herulian swords) for their connections with the Germanic mercenaries wearing them originally within the Roman army. [8, No Reserve] Fine condition.
2nd-3rd century AD. A set of bronze military horse harness or chariot mounts, comprising a peltate element with the image of Mithra wearing a Phrygian cap, a heart-shaped element, four quadrate mounts with scalloped borders; each mount with fastening pins on the rear for the leather straps. Cf. Pop, C., 'Bronzuri Figurate Romane in Muzeul de Istorie al Transilvaniei' in Acta-Musei-Napocensis-1983, pp.467-484, fig.III no.5; Unz, C., Deschler-Erb, E., Katalog der Militaria aus Vindonissa, Militärische Funde, Pferdegeschirr und Jochteile bis 1976, Brugg, 1997, no.2156, for very similar peltate mounts with anthropomorphic figure. 342 grams total, 52-81mm (2 - 3 1/4"). North American collection, 1990s-2000s. Property of a Surrey gentleman. [6] Very fine condition.
10th-11th century AD. A set of four bronze harness mounts, each a T-shaped plate with dome at the junction of the arms, segmented decoration to the face, rivetted counter plates to the reverse. Cf. Arbman, H., Birka I: Die Gräber, Uppsala, 1940, pl.40, and others. 231 grams total, 10-12cm (4 - 4 3/4"). Acquired 1971-1972. From the collection of the vendor's father. Property of a London, UK, collector. [4, No Reserve] Fine condition.
8th-9th century AD. A bronze gilt horse headpiece and eighteen large circular bronze plaques from a Khazar horse harness, the headpiece formed as a large convex circular plate, decorated by four copper-alloy flowers, with a carved edge and a hollow tube in the form of a truncated cone. See ??????? ?.?., '? ??????? ?? ?????? ????????????? ????????? ?????????? ???????? (?? ?????????? ?????????? ? ?????????? ?????????????????? ? ?????????????? ???????????)' in ?????? ???.? 413, 1998; ???????? ?.?., ????????? ? ????? ?????? ???????? VIII-IX ??. ???????? ????? ?. ?????????? ?????? (?? ??????????? ??????????? ????????? ???????????"). ???????. ???. ????. ??????, 1999; ??????? ?.?., '??????????? ??????????? ????????? ???????-??????? ???????? ?? ????????? ?????' in ??????? ?????????? 2001, no.1-2; see for the way in which were mounted on the horses Nicolle, D., Zhirohov, M., The Khazars, A Judeo-Turkish Empire on the Steppes, 7th-11th centuries AD, Oxford, 2019, pl.C. 460 grams total, 4.3-11cm wide (1 3/4 - 4 1/4"). Private collection of Mr M.B., Mainz, Germany, 1990s. Property of a London businessman. Recent studies carried out at the Verkhny Saltovsky burial ground (Volchansky district of the Kharkov region) by the archaeological expedition conducted by the Kharkov Historical Museum under the leadership of V.G. Borodulin (1984-1992), lead to the discovery of several interesting complexes containing sets of horse harness ornaments, which included horse headpieces. Horse plume holders, along with other ornaments of harness belts similar to our specimen, were found in three of four separate horse burials located on the north-western slopes of the Kapnnosovy ravine. [19] Fine condition.
14th-mid 12th century BC. A substantial bronze palstave axehead from the Manston hoard pit deposit, triangular flanges rise from the butt to the stop bar; a hollow to both faces below the septum; narrow body expanding to a wide triangular blade with slight flare at the tips. See Evans, J., The Ancient Bronze Implements, Weapons and Ornaments of Great Britain and Ireland, London, 1881, pp.76-84 and figs.56-68, for similar types; Rowlands, M.J., The Production and Distribution of Metalwork in the Middle Bronze Age in Southern Britain, Oxford, 1976. See Portable Antiquities Scheme, reference PAS KENT-495597, for this find. 475 grams, 17.5cm (7"). Found near Manston, Kent, UK, 2016. Accompanied by copies of the British Museum PAS report number KENT-495597. Accompanied by Treasure Act documentation under Treasure Reference 2016 T618. At Manston was found a hoard of 10 copper alloy palstave axeheads, in one spot, described as 'one hole' and therefore possibly a pit deposit from the Middle-Late Bronze Age. A similar hoard of palstaves was also found in the immediate vicinity by the same finder at a later date, see PAS KENT-593613. These palstaves are comparable to those placed within Rowlands 'class 3 group 1', characterised by a U-shaped septum profile, low triangular or slightly convex flanges, a straight sided triangular or crinoline blade and a triangular depression or ribbed motif beneath the stop bar (Rowlands 1976, pp.32-33"). Group 1 and 2 within class 3 are divided based on blade width, being 7-8cm and 5-6cm respectively, placing the above axes between the two, but probably within group 1. Fine condition.
12th-8th century BC. A pair of penannular gold-clad rings, each ovoid in cross section with a seam where the two terminals meet; accompanied by a tip of a Bronze Age spear with the same provenance. Cf. The British Museum, museum numbers 1853,1216.6 and 1853,1216.5, for similar. 28.51 grams total, 17-31mm wide (3/4 - 1 1/4"). Private estate collection, 1970s. Private Devon collection. Identical spear tip examples are held by the National Museum of Wales. [3] Fine condition.
2nd century BC-2nd century AD. A bronze figure modelled in the round as a stylised female goddess standing on a tiered plinth base, wearing a v-section headdress over cropped shoulder-length hair, neck ornamentation or elaborate collar expressed as two parallel rows of punched dots in V-formation, continued to the reverse and down the back, arms held at a distance from the body with arm bands to the upper arm, palms facing inwards, hands oriented towards the ground, legs tight together with a band of textile wrapped around the waist and falling between the legs, also ornamented with punched dots, dashed diagonal lines down the back of the legs, a possible inscription to the base of the head. 29.3 grams, 48.5mm height (2 1/2"). Found Norfolk, UK, before 2001. Private collection of Mr M.H., Norfolk, UK. [No Reserve] Very fine condition.
10th century AD. A brooch and necklace assemblage comprising: a matched pair of bronze tortoise brooches, each a domed and slightly keeled body with stepped flange rim, dense pattern of low-relief Borre Style moulded detail including facing figures with pellet eyes; transverse mounting bar and catch to the reverse with loop for attachment of the swag of beads; six restrung swags of glass and other beads of barrel-shaped, fusiform, oblate and other types attached to two openwork D-shaped plaques with incised interlace ornament, the lower swag with a seven crescent-shaped pendants with linear ornament. Cf. Sedov, B.B., Finno-Ugri i Balti v Epokhi Srednevekovija, Moscow, 1987 pl.X, XIII, LVIII. 387 grams total, brooches: 79-82mm (3 1/4"). Acquired 1971-1972. From the collection of the vendor's father. Property of a London, UK, collector. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by AIAD certificate number no.11106-184529. Fine condition.
Third Intermediate Period, 1069-702 BC. A bronze figurine of seated Isis wearing a tripartite wig, crown and uraeus, with the infant Horus on her lap; Horus with sidelock of youth; Isis's right hand on her breast preparing to suckle Horus; mounted on a custom-made stand. Cf. Andrews, C., Amulets of Ancient Egypt, London, 1994, item 18a. 215 grams, 10.5cm (4"). Acquired in the late 1990s-early 2000s. Private collection of Dr H.B., a Sussex lady. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by AIAD certificate number no.11123-184256. [A video of this lot is available to view on Timeline Auctions Website.] Fine condition.
11th century AD. A bronze Anglo-Scandinavian stirrup mount of Williams's Class A Type 16, a rectangular plaque with high-relief tendril and scroll ornament, facing beast-head above with everted ears, pierced lug above; ledge to the reverse. Cf. Williams, D., Late Saxon Stirrup-Strap Mounts, York, 1997, item 360, for type. 28.2 grams, 54mm high (2"). Acquired on the UK antiques market between 1974-1985. Albert Ward collection (part 2), Essex, UK. This form of stirrup mount is among the rarer types, and the present piece is in exceptional condition showing no substantial loss and little accretion.[A video of this lot is available to view on Timeline Auctions Website.] Very fine condition.
11th century AD. A bronze openwork stirrup mount of Williams's Class A Type 3, with facing nude male figure held by serpents, restraining the elbows and knees and forming an arc from the shoulders and neck to the wrists; attachment loop above the head, small ledge to the reverse. See Williams, D., Late Saxon Stirrup-Strap Mounts, York, 1997, p.37. 24.2 grams, 56mm high (2 1/4"). Found UK. Acquired circa 2001. Private collection of a Letchworth gentleman. Property of a Hertfordshire lady. There are several Viking mythological figures that can be related to this iconography. One possibility is Loki, a cunning trickster known from many poems to be both friend and enemy of gods and giants. As a punishment for his crimes, gods killed his son and bound Loki with his entrails, and Skadi, a giantess with a personal interest in his punishment, put a snake releasing venom in front of his face. His faithful wife Sigyn sat next to Loki and gathered the venom in a bowl. This imprisonment should have lasted until Ragnarok, the final battle between gods and giants, when Loki would break free, and die in a fight with god Heimdall. Another possibility is that the present mount may represent one of the most famous heroes of the Viking Age, Ragnar Lodbrok, who, according to the legend, was killed by being thrown into a snake pit by order of king Ælla of Northumbria. A similar death was meant for legendary hero Gunnar, known from the cycle of Nibelungs. Fine condition. Rare.
11th century AD. A bronze stirrup mount of Williams's Class A Type 10b, a heater-shaped plaque with pierced lug at the apex, two piercings below, low-relief openwork Urnes style design with standing beast and entwined tendrils, narrow ledge to the reverse. Cf. Williams, D., Late Saxon Stirrup-Strap Mounts, York, 1997, item 55, for type. 19.2 grams, 42mm high (1 1/2"). Acquired on the UK antiques market between 1974-1985. Albert Ward collection (part 2), Essex, UK. Fine condition.
11th century AD. A bronze triangular mount with low-relief Ringerike Style entwined tendrils, openwork detailing, remains of two ferrous attachment pins. 9.41 grams, 45mm wide (1 3/4"). Acquired on the UK antiques market between 1974-1985. Albert Ward collection (part 2), Essex, UK. [No Reserve] Fine condition.
8th-9th century AD. A bronze penannular brooch comprising a round-section crescent with flared ends terminating in two curved spatulate flat panels each with a ropework border surrounding a two-band knotwork motif. Treasure Hunting Magazine, Portable Antiquities Scheme Corner, November 2021, p.38. 10.55 grams, 62mm wide (2 1/2''"). Found whilst searching with a metal detector on a beach, probably having been washed out of a Viking burial from an overlooking cliff near Tenby, Pembrokeshire, UK, on Thursday 7th April 2016 by Kelvin Maddocks. Recorded with the Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) with reference number NMGW-DA579E. Accompanied by a copy of the PAS report including a museum drawing of the object, a copy of report number NMWPA 2016.43 sent to the finder. Accompanied by a copy of the relevant Treasure Hunting Magazine pages where it has recently been published. Fine condition, cleaned and conserved.
8th-10th century AD. A Hiberno-Norse type penannular bronze brooch with oval hoop, widening towards the terminals, inset glass cabochon to each sub-triangular terminal and thick pin with ring finial. See Murray, E., Mccormick, F.M., 'Doonloughan: a seasonal settlement site on the Connemara coast' in Proceedings of the Royal Irish Academy Section C, January, 2012, pp.1-51, fig.3. 14.4 grams, 96mm (3 3/4"). UK gallery, acquired in the 2000s. Property of an English gentleman. Large penannular brooch types originally developed by Vikings residing near the Irish Sea, were soon adopted in Scandinavia and further towards the east. However, this brooch presents affinities with the Pant-y-Saer, Llanfair-Mathafarn-Eithaf brooch from Wales (inv.92.228H of National Wales Museum), and with a 9th-10th century brooch discovered at the Irish site of Doonloughan. The brooch of Doonloughan shows the same type of pin. It is probable that the brooch is of Celtic origin. Very fine condition.
10th-14th century AD. A bronze disc brooch with the plaque formed from concentric rings of coiled rods with interstitial domes, outer flange of ropework with radiating segments and clusters of domes; securing pin to the inner ring. Cf. Sedov, B.B., Finno-Ugri i Balti v Epokhi Srednevekovija, Moscow, 1987, pl.XL, item 8, for type. 192 grams, 13.2cm (5 1/4"). Acquired 1971-1972. From the collection of the vendor's father. Property of a London, UK, collector. Fine condition.
Late Period, 525-332 BC or earlier. A large bronze religious symbol comprising a djed pillar with flared base and transverse rectangular blocks surmounted by an Atef crown with uraeus, papyrus stalk and solar disc above; mounted on a custom-made display stand. 620 grams total, 20cm including stand (8"). Hugo Johanne collection, Belgium, 1956. In mythology, Osiris was a just ruler who was overthrown by his jealous brother, Set, who tricked him into a coffin which he cast into the River Nile. The coffin ended up at Byblos where it ran aground, and a tree took root around it. The tree was eventually felled and used for a pillar in the royal palace, where courtiers were surprised by its sweet aroma. The goddess Isis, searching for her husband Osiris, reached Byblos and requested the return of the wooden pillar so she could release her husband from his wooden tomb. Subsequently, the pillar was venerated and became known as the djed. It was recognised in the New Kingdom as a symbol of Osiris and is thought to represent the spine of the god.[A video of this lot is available to view on Timeline Auctions Website.] Fine condition.
6th-7th century AD. A matched pair of bronze brooches, each a D-shaped headplate with arched detailing, a shallow 'bow' flanked by bosses, short body with further flanking bosses, long piriform finial with facing bearded mask modelled in the half-round; one with remains of radiating knops on the headplate. 56 grams total, 67-71mm (2 1/2"). Family UK collection, 1980s. UK art market. Property of a Surrey gentleman. Fair condition, radiates absent.
4th-7th century AD. A gold pendant in bucket form, with a U-section body and D-section loop handle, the side walls and rounded base decorated with filigree waves and granules between faux ropework bands. See Khrapunov I. and Stylegar, F.A., Inter Ambo Maria, Contacts between Scandinavia and the Crimea in the Roman Period; and ????? ?, ?., ???????????? ?, ?, ?? ????? ????????? ?????????-???????? ???????? ??????? ? ????????? ??????, ??, 1989, no.3. 2.52 grams, 16mm high (3/4"). Private collection formed in Europe in the 1980s. Westminster collection, central London, UK. Pendants in the form of miniature buckets have been found in a number of pagan Anglo-Saxon and Viking contexts and are generally made of bronze or iron, with gold examples being rare; three gold examples were found with the hoard from Hoen, Norway. Bronze bucket amulets have been found at Driffield in Yorkshire, and Vimose bog in Denmark, among other places. In form they represent wooden buckets bound with bronze or iron bands which have been found in Anglo-Saxon and Viking graves and are believed to have held mead or ale and were used to replenish the cups from which warriors drank. As amulets they probably represent the ecstatic power of alcoholic drink and the role of women as the dispensers of these precious beverages. [No Reserve] Fine condition.
9th-10th century AD. A bronze Gotland-type fish pendant, composed of a tapering, round-section body with flat base and inverted triangular mouth holding a moveable bar, suspended on a ring with twisted wire coils and stamped with small circles repeated on the bar below; the fish body decorated with four panels of low-relief Mammen Style interlacing with remains of gilding; two circular piercings to each side of the body. Cf. MacGregor, A. et al., A Summary Catalogue of the Continental Archaeological Collections, Oxford, 1997, item 13.1, for similar. 23.2 grams, 72mm high (2 3/4"). Private collection formed in Europe in the 1980s. Westminster collection, central London, UK. Pendants of this type were worn strung together in groups, the tapering profile allowing them to sit comfortably as a collar below the neck. They were often worn suspended between two zoomorphic brooches. This example has been taken from a necklace and mounted on a suspension ring for use as an amuletic pendant. [No Reserve] Fine condition.
10th-12th century AD. A group of ten bronze pendants, each a hollow-formed bird with braided loop to the rump, curved neck with coxcomb above the head, applied coils to the neck and lower edge, two large bell-shaped dangles suspended at the front edge. Cf. Sedov, B.B., Finno-Ugri i Balti v Epokhi Srednevekovija, Moscow, 1987, pl.X (18"). 208 grams total, 55mm each (2 1/4"). Acquired 1971-1972. From the collection of the vendor's father. Property of a London, UK, collector. [10] Fine condition.
9th-12th century AD. A bronze pendant formed as a hammer with two disc-shaped lateral striking faces, handle formed as a loop with suspension ring passed through it. Cf. group of similar iron pendants recovered from the Birka excavations and now in the Historiskamuseet, Stockholm under accession no. 5208:508:2. 13.5 grams, 41.1mm (1 3/4"). Acquired 1971-1972. From the collection of the vendor's father. Property of a London, UK, collector. [No Reserve] Fine condition.
10th-12th century AD. A bronze pendant with an openwork rectangular body and stylised horsehead terminals, comprising horizontal rows of geometric motifs and low-relief ropework detailing; seven rings to the lower edge, six of which display a double figure-of-eight coiled loop with a webbed-foot pendant; two suspension loops to the reverse; accompanied by a custom-made stand. 110 grams total, 10cm (14cm including stand) (4 (5 1/2)"). Private collection of L.F., Scotland, UK. London art market, 1990s. Fine condition.
Late Period, 525-332 BC or earlier. A bronze figure of Osiris standing in mummiform shroud with nekhakha flail and heka short-handled crook in the crossed hands, Atef crown to the head with solar disc finial; mounted on a custom-made stand. Cf. similar figure in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York under accession no.56.16.2. 173 grams total, 16.5cm including stand (6 1/2"). Cambridge, UK, collection, 1980s. Property of a Cambridgeshire gentleman. Fine condition.
Ptolemaic Period, 332-30 BC. A bronze Apis bull statuette modelled in the round, advancing on a rectangular base, a solar disc held between horns, semi-naturalistic detailing to the face and body; conical lug beneath base. 27.9 grams, 49mm high (2"). Acquired in the 1970s. Property of a London gentleman. Fair condition.
12th-13th century AD. A bronze candlestick composed of a round-section column flaring out at the lower end and with fixing spike at base, the column with three spherical knobs spaced equally; the top dividing into two arched branches to hold a pair of wax or tallow tapers in the notched ends of the branches. See Museum of London accession number A2647, for a travelling candlestick that was made to receive both full candles and tapers. 37.3 grams, 18.5cm high (7 1/4"). Found Thames spoil in the 1980s. Acquired on the UK antiques market between 1974-1985. Albert Ward collection (part 2), Essex, UK. Indoor lighting during the medieval period utilised wax or tallow in the form of candles of varying sizes and thin tapers; whereas full candles were a rigid column of wax or tallow with a 'string' wick, the taper was a wick with a thin covering of wax or tallow and these were quite flexible so could be coiled. The example of a travelling candlestick with folding legs in the Museum of London collection provides a central spike to receive a larger candle diameter, a socket on a side branch for a smaller candle type and an opposing branch with a V-notch at the end, as seen in this example, to accept a taper. [No Reserve] Fine condition. Rare.
4th century BC. A terracotta figure modelled as the god Herakles (Hercules) standing nude, his club held in his right hand, wearing a lionskin cloak with the jaw serving as a hood, semi-naturalistic anatomical detailing to the muscular torso, genitals and face. See the Herakles from the Cesnola collection, at the Metropolitan Museum of New York, inventory no.74.51.2455; see also the bronze figure in the MET inventory no. 96.9.430, and the other limestone Heracles from Cyprus (4th century BC) in the Cesnola collection, inv. no.74.51.2660. 1.6 kg, 31.5cm high (12 1/4"). UK collection, 1980s-1990s. Acquired from a shop in Chichester, UK. Herakles is presented here as a hero of extraordinary strength and vitality but also as a beautifully groomed and civilised individual. This aspect is emphasised on many iconographies, where Herakles is equal to the god Apollo. The statuette was probably made as a dedication in a sanctuary. The rigidity of the statuette in influenced by archaic models of the hero, already visible in Phoenician-Cypriot art.[A video of this lot is available to view on Timeline Auctions Website.] Fine condition.
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