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Lot 103
Ca. 1st - 2nd Millennium BC. A small bronze stylised votive statue of a deity with raised hands. The figure is wearing a headdress and has a flattened face with a beak-like nose and wide eyes. It is discernible that the deity is wearing a collar and long robes. A large variation of these small bronzes would have served as votive offerings for cult worship, though they did not represent the cult images themselves. They would have been placed prominently amongst other statues, pottery, jewellery and weapons in order to gain the favour of relevant supernatural forces. If not displayed publicly, these bronze statuettes might have served as idols in private homes.Size: L:125mm / W:36mm; 75g.Provenance: Private London collection ( B.A); formerly acquired in the 1970s from John Lees collection.
Lot 104
Ca. 1200-1000 BC. A ceremonial bronze cast mace head featuring a globular body flanked with two short necks to either side with a circular shaft hole. The body is decorated with a dual-side face, with stylised eyes, nose and mouth. Beautiful green patination covers the surface.Size: L:67mm / W:44mm; 160g.Provenance: Private London collection ( B.A); formerly acquired in the 1970s from John Lees collection.
Lot 117
Ca. 550-330 BC. A rare Western Asiatic bronze bowl featuring a hemispherical body, undulating sides and simple, flattened rim. The centre of the bowl is decorated with an engraved six-petalled flower, framed by a cycle of animal motifs, possibly depicting hunting dogs and their prey. The Achaemenid Empire (the first Persian empire) was an ancient empire founded by Cyrus the Great and stretching from the Balkans and Eastern Europe to the Indus Valley and covering 5.5 million square kilometres at its height. This empire is also famous for being the antagonist of the Greek city states during the Greco-Persian wars. This beautiful bowl may have been used on ritual occasions and during banqueting. Excellent condition; beautiful patina. Size: H:50mm / W:155mm ; 480g Provenance: From the private collection of an Oxford gentleman; previously in an old British collection, formed in the 1990s on the UK / International art markets.
Lot 128
Ca. 2nd millennium BC. A bronze kohl container comprising: a central bulb with octagonal-section neck and flange rim; three radiating legs each with an ibex-head finial and interstitial ibex-heads, all pierced at the nose; three radiating ibex-heads to the rim; incised chevrons and other hatching overall; separate pin with round-section shank, addorsed ibex-head finial with conjoined horns forming two rings. Cf. British Museum accession number: 1996,0323.1 for a similar vessel.Size: L: 185mm / W: 85mm ; 355gProvenance: From the collection of a London ancient art specialist; from a collection acquired in the 1970s and 1980s.
Lot 13
Ca. 202 BC - 220 AD. A polychrome terracotta bird on bronze legs is a stunning example of the period's artistic and technical achievements. The figure is hollow-moulded, with the bird standing on exquisitely crafted, lifelike legs that add to the realism of the piece. The colourful plumage is meticulously detailed, with a black tail and a red head featuring wide-open eyes and a cream-colored beak. The short neck is accentuated in orange, and the wings are green, adorned with striking red dots. This polychrome terracotta bird belongs to the category of Mingqi, objects that were buried with the deceased to serve them in the afterlife.Size: L:125mm / W:190mm ; 350gProvenance: Private UK collection; From an old British collection formed in the 1990s.
Lot 181
Ca. 3000-2500 BC. Cylinder seal of bronze. Frieze of three horned animals with items under and above their bodies. Condition very good for ancient bronze. Accompanied by a signed scholarly note by Professor Wilfrid George Lambert.Size: L:19mm / W:15mm ; 14.75gProvenance: Property of a London gallery; formerly with a Mayfair Art dealer S.A.; ex. 1990s London collections, studied and catalogued by professor Lambert in the early 90s (with original note, signed by him). Previously in an old British collection formed since the 1960s.
Lot 193
Ca. 900-800 BC. A bronze sword with a triangular-shaped blade with a striking midrib. The midrib runs the length of the blade, accentuating its impressive form. Moving towards the hilt, the sword's tubular handle is impeccably constructed and terminates with a double disc pommel. The pommel, though simple in design, balance the weight of the blade and hilt. The double disc shape of the pommel is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, providing a secure grip for the wielder. Cf. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Accession Number: 60.82.1.Size: L:515mm / W:70mm ; 620gProvenance: Property of a North London gentleman; previously acquire on the UK/European art market in the 1970s.
Lot 194
Western Asiatic/Aegean, Ca. 1200-700 BC. A bronze spear with a triangular-shaped blade with a raised midrib, sharpened edges that taper gradually to a pointed tip, short socket, and a tang for insertion into a haft. Good condition, beautiful patina. For more information, see Moorey, P. R. S. (1971). Catalogue of the Ancient Persian Bronzes in the Ashmolean Museum. Oxford University Press, Oxford, 88-89.Size: L:150mm / W:25mm ; 35gProvenance: Property of a North London gentleman; previously acquire on the UK/European art market in the 1970s.
Lot 196
Ca. 2000-700 BC. A cast bronze axe head with a downwards-facing blade curled back into a neat volute and a reinforced rounded poll with four spikes on the reverse. Bronze weaponry production flourished in western Asia, the Aegean, and Mainland Greece from the 2nd millennium BC to about 700 BC, when it was gradually replaced by iron. Swords, spears, and arrows were important symbols of war in Greek Bronze Age societies and served as powerful reminders that authority rested in the hands of those who could earn it. Superb condition. Size: L:60mm / W:70mm ; 554g Provenance: Private UK collection; Formerly acquired on the European art market from pre-2000 collections.
Lot 197
Western Asiatic/Aegan, ca. 1200-700 BC. A bronze spear with an elegantly shaped, slender blade featuring delicate blood grooves, which serve to reduce the weight of the blade while also facilitating the flow of blood from any wounds inflicted upon an enemy. The blade of this spear culminates in a sharp, pointed tip, ideal for piercing armor and other defensive measures. The spear's tang is rectangular in section and impeccably designed, tapering gracefully towards the outturned finial. The finial is capped with a small, unassuming disc.Size: L:500mm / W:30mm ; 505gProvenance: Property of a North London gentleman; previously acquire on the UK/European art market in the 1970s.
Lot 198
Western Asiatic/Aegean, Ca. 1200-700 BC. A bronze witah a tapering, bevelled blade with raised midrib, a broad neck and a tang for insertion into a haft. Bronze weaponry production flourished in western Asia, the Aegean, and Mainland Greece from the 2nd millennium BC to about 700 BC, when it was gradually replaced by iron.Size: L:142mm / W:23mm ; 30gProvenance: Property of a North London gentleman; previously acquire on the UK/European art market in the 1970s.
Lot 199
Western Asiatic, Ca. 2000-700 BC. A bronze axe head with a short, curved blade, tapering cheek, and a adze-shaped butt. The shaft short and cylindrical. This axe head was used both in war and in everyday life. During the Bronze Age, axes were essential tools used to fell trees and create shelters, hunt, prepare food and build structures. The axe head with an adze blade was also an important tool in warfare and was used to cut through armored shields and raise the morale of troops.Size: L:75mm / W:135mm ; 425gProvenance: Property of a West London gentleman; previously in a collection formed on the UK/International art market in the 1990s.
Lot 20
Late Shang-Early Western Zhou dynasty, 11th-10th century BC. A mysterious and powerful ritual wine vessel with lid referred to as 'you'. The vessel is pear-shaped, of oval section, it is raised upon a foot with expands from the body to the bottom, each side with a banding of kui dragon symbols of good fortune and royalty, centred by zoomorphic taotie mask cast in high relief and leiwen in between. The cover is cast with two centred taotie masks and a continuation of kui dragon scrolls. The handle twisted in form, can move from left to right offering flexibility, which terminates at each end with a stylised zoomorphic tapir-head terminals, The powerful "you" vessel is a type of wine vessel made for the royal family or members of high ruling important members of society. These were placed in the tombs of deceased, and were used for ritual rites, normally placed on an altar. The Chinese descendants we provided elaborate rights to their ancestors, for them to be protected against evil. This elaborate bronze vessel is similar in form to the Zhao you, made during the rein of king Zhao. For a similar style see Sotheby's, New York, May 13, 2015, lot 101.Size: L:255mm / W:220mm; 2.2kgProvenance: Private collection of a London doctor; formerly in a Somerset Estate collection; acquired from Hong Kong galleries in the early 1990s.
Lot 201
Western Asiatic/Aegan, ca. 1200-700 BC. A bronze spear skillfully cast in one piece. The slender, leaf-shaped blade boasts distinctive round shoulders and a prominent midrib that runs the length of the blade. This midrib adds strength and stiffness to the blade, allowing it to better withstand the stresses of combat. The elongated shank of the blade is elegantly separated from the square tang by a bifurcated molding. The tang itself terminates in a bent, blunt end. Cf. O. White Muscarella, Bronze and Iron. Ancient Near Eastern Artefacts in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, 1988, p.103, 171.Size: L:450mm / W:40mm ; 425gProvenance: Property of a North London gentleman; previously acquire on the UK/European art market in the 1970s.
Lot 202
Western Asiatic/Aegean, Ca. 1200-700 BC. A bronze spear with a slender blade, raised midrib, bevelled edges that taper to a pointed tip, short socket, and a short tang for insertion into a haft. Good condition, beautiful patina. Swords, spears, and arrows were important symbols of war in Greek Bronze Age societies and served as powerful reminders that authority rested in the hands of those who could earn it.Size: L:130mm / W:23mm ; 30gProvenance: Property of a North London gentleman; previously acquire on the UK/European art market in the 1970s.
Lot 206
Western Asiatic/Aegean, Ca. 1200-700 BC. A bronze spearhead with an elongated leaf-shaped blade and barbs, wide raised midrib, and a short socket that transitions into a small tang for insertion into a haft. Good condition, beautiful patina. Cf. Muscarella, Oscar White, Bronze and Iron: Ancient Near Eastern Artifacts in The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, 1988, item 398, p. 290.Size: L:130mm / W:20mm ; 25gProvenance: Property of a North London gentleman; previously acquire on the UK/European art market in the 1970s.
Lot 208
Ca. 1200-800 BC. A bronze battle axe head featuring a curved blade with a deep cheek and four spikes at the rear of the tubular socket. The design of the axe head is both functional and elegant, with careful attention paid to the balance and distribution of weight. Bronze axes were a common weapon during the Bronze Age in Western Asia, and were prized for their durability and effectiveness in combat. They were crafted using advanced metallurgical techniques, which allowed for the creation of high-quality, durable weapons. These axes were often used in close combat, but were also effective as throwing weapons.Size: L:170mm / W:70mm ; 480gProvenance: Private UK collection; From an old British collection formed in the 1990s.
Lot 209
Western Asiatic/Aegan, ca. 1200-700 BC. A striking example of a two-edged bronze blade with a leaf-shaped design and a small tang provides a secure resting place for the spear shaft. The blade boasts a corrugated midrib that extends nearly to the tip and flares at the shoulder, lending an element of visual drama to its already formidable profile. The blade's design is carefully calibrated to maximize its effectiveness as a spear, with each section of the weapon contributing to its overall performance. Cf. Christie's, The Axel Guttmann Collection of Ancient Arms and Armour, part 2, London, 28 April 2004, lot 36.Size: L:360mm / W:75mm ; 285gProvenance: Property of a North London gentleman; previously acquire on the UK/European art market in the 1970s.
Lot 21
Ca. 202 BC - 220 AD. A bird figure expertly crafted from terracotta, with naturalistically shaped bronze legs that lend a sense of lifelikeness to the piece. The bird's polychrome plumage is vibrant and finely rendered, with a well-defined tail and a black-pigmented head featuring wide-open eyes and a cream-colored beak. This exquisite example of Mingqi, or burial art, was created to accompany the deceased into the afterlife, serving as a representation of the wealth and status they held in life. The intricate detailing and masterful execution of this piece speak to the skill and craftsmanship of the artisans of the Han Dynasty.Size: L:120mm / W:180mm ; 405gProvenance: East Anglian private collection; formerly acquired in the early 1990s in Hong Kong.
Lot 211
Ca. 1500-1000 BC. A cast bronze axe head featuring a short, undecorated, cylindrical shaft, and a curved blade that tapers toward the cheek. Beautiful green and olive patination covers the surface of the weapon. Bronze axes were used for a variety of tasks, including felling trees, and chopping wood, as well as for hunting and warfare. They were also used in rituals and ceremonies, with some axes being found with sacrificial victims.Size: L:50mm / W:105mm ; 350gProvenance: Property of a West London gentleman; previously in a collection formed on the UK/International art market in the 1990s.
Lot 213
Western Asiatic/Aegan, ca. 1200-700 BC. A finely cast bronze dagger, comprising a triangular-shaped, double-edged blade with raised mid-rib and a flanged, hollowed hilt.Size: L:215mm / W:30mm ; 95gProvenance: Property of a North London gentleman; previously acquire on the UK/European art market in the 1970s.
Lot 214
Ca. 1500-1000 BC. A cast bronze war axe head. Featuring an undecorated, cylindrical shaft and the flattened blade, drawn out from the top of the shaft, broadens out towards the cutting edge which is slightly convex.Size: L:100mm / W:60mm ; 356gProvenance: Property of a West London gentleman; previously in a collection formed on the UK/International art market in the 1980s.
Lot 217
Ca. 1200-700 BC. A well-preserved cast bronze dagger featuring a triangular-shaped, double-edged blade. The hilt of the dagger is flanged and hollowed, with a sturdy grip for the wielder's hand. The hilt's interior space, created by the hollowing, allowed the dagger's weight to be evenly distributed and balanced, making it an effective weapon in close combat. Bronze was a preferred material for weaponry in ancient times because of its strength, durability, and relative abundance. It was also easier to shape and sharpen compared to other materials. Bronze weapons were essential in warfare and were used by armies of many ancient civilizations, including the Greeks, Egyptians, and Romans.Size: L:335mm / W:41mm ; 215gProvenance: Private UK collection; From an old British collection formed in the 1990s.
Lot 218
Western Asiatic, Ca. 1200-700 BC. A bronze axe head with a curved blade, tapering cheek and a circular socket with four protrusions to the rear. The design of the axe head is indicative of the period's emphasis on utilitarianism, with its sturdy construction and sharp edges allowing it to be used for a number of purposes. This axe head is an example of the skill and craftsmanship required to create such a durable tool. It speaks to the technological capabilities of the region during the time and suggests a level of sophistication in the manufacture of tools and weapons.Size: L:80mm / W:100mm ; 335gProvenance: Private UK collection; From an old British collection formed in the 1990s.
Lot 220
Aegan/Cypriot, ca. 1200-700 BC. An elegant and symmetrical bronze spearhead with a double-edged blade that tapers gradually to a sharp point. The blade of the spearhead is characterized by a pronounced midrib that runs through its entire length, imparting a distinctive three-dimensional quality to its surface. The flared shoulders of the spearhead, which widen slightly towards the base of the blade, are also pierced with pairs of rivet holes. The overall construction of the spearhead demonstrates the ancient metalworker's mastery of the bronze casting process, as well as their keen eye for design and attention to detail.Size: L:280mm / W:60mm ; 255gProvenance: From the private collection of an Essex gentleman; previously in an old British Collection, formed in the 1990s.
Lot 221
Aegan/Cypriot, ca. 1200-700 BC. A bronze spearhead with a double-edged blade that tapers dramatically to a sharp point, imparting a streamlined and aerodynamic profile. The blade is further distinguished by the presence of a pronounced midrib that runs the entire length of the spearhead. The flared shoulders of the spearhead are yet another notable feature, widening gradually towards the base of the blade and enhancing the overall stability and balance of the weapon.Size: L:310mm / W:70mm ; 175gProvenance: From the private collection of an Essex gentleman; previously in an old British Collection, formed in the 1990s.
Lot 222
Ca. 800-600 BC. A hefty cast bronze axe head with a flared blade, blunt sides, a thick neck, and a rounded collar with a hoop. The head is socketed, with a circular opening for a handle. There is a beautiful linear and dotted decoration on the cheek.Size: L:121mm / W:52mm ; 320gProvenance: Property of a European collector, formerly in English collection; previously in private Dutch collection, 1970s.
Lot 232
Ca. 400-600 AD. A matched pair of gold earrings in a crescent shape, with a hook and eye closure. The open-work plaques are decorated with a scene of two birds, possibly peacocks facing each other and flanking a vase. The edges are ornamented with five spherical baubles, which hang from the bottom of the outer edge. Byzantium was justly famous for the elegance of its jewellery, whether in precious metals for the aristocracy or in bronze for people further down the social ladder. For a similar pair, see The Victoria and Albert Museum, Accession Number M.6&A-1970. The item has undergone X-ray fluorescence analysis to confirm the metallurgical content suggesting its ancient origin and lack of modern trace elements. This analysis will accompany the purchase.Size: L:38.7mm / W:36.8mm ; 12.87gProvenance: Private UK collection; From an old British collection formed in the 1990s.
Lot 239
Ca. 900-1100 AD. A gilt-bronze pendant of a lunar-shaped, pierced plaque embellished to both faces with twisted ropework border and circular designs. It features a suspension loop and it comes with a modern necklace cord. The lunar shape of the pendant signifies the importance of the moon in Viking mythology, where it was believed to be a symbol of fertility, growth, and prosperity.Size: L:17.6mm / W:15.4mm ; 3.27gProvenance: Property of European collector Marcus Prill, Belgium, 1998.
Lot 252
Ca. 1100-1300 AD. A stunning pair of elaborate gold earrings comprising an open, circular hoop, elongated woven cord connected to a crescent with applied gold spheres, garnet, and garnet inlays. A pearl hangs from each end of each crescent, while a garnet and pearl cross is suspended from each crescent's centre. Finally, three delicate pearl pendants are suspended below each of the crosses. The medieval empire of Byzantium was justly famous for the elegance of its jewellery, whether in precious metals for the aristocracy or in bronze for people further down the social ladder. These gorgeous pieces may once have belonged to a Byzantine noblewoman or princess. Excellent condition; wearable.Size: L:31.2mm / W:19.2mm ; 11.28gProvenance: From the private collection of a Central London gentleman; previously in a collection formed on the UK/European art market before 2000.
Lot 256
Ca. 600-800 AD. A bronze cross pendant with flaring terminals and concentric circles motif at the junction and each arm. The five wounds of Christ motif represented in this pendant has a rich and complex history that stretches all the way back to the first century. This iconic imagery, which references Christ's passion, suffering, and death, has been an integral part of countless religious figures, artwork, and artifacts throughout the centuries. The motif is a powerful symbol of faith and perseverance, one that is often used to demonstrate courage and strength in the face of adversity. For a similar, see The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Accession Number: 37.75.39.Size: L:32.8mm / W:20mm ; 3.88gProvenance: Private London collector, acquired on the UK Art market, pre-2000.
Lot 257
Ca. 1200 AD. A bronze archer's ring comprising a circular hoop and projecting triangular guard. The exterior of the guard is covered in incised linear motifs. An archer's ring was worn on the thumb to protect the skin when the bowstring was drawn. Excellent condition; beautiful patina.Size: D: 20.37mm / US: 10 5/8 / UK: V; 8.89gProvenance: Private London collector, acquired on the UK Art market, pre-2000.
Lot 258
Ca. 1100 AD. A bronze cross pendant comprised of four equally length arms gently flaring outwards. The arms are decorated with sets of small engraved circles and at the junction, there is a cross pattern incised. Two of the finials are pierced and the other two have raised knobs to the obverse and loops to the reverse. The Norman Period, which spanned from 1066 to 1154, was one of the most significant periods of history in Europe. It was during this period that the Normans, a Scandinavian people, conquered England and established a new feudal system in the country.Size: L:32.5mm / W:29.4mm ; 3.23gProvenance: Private London collector, acquired on the UK Art market, pre-2000.
Lot 259
Ca. 600-800 AD. A bronze finger ring featuring a unique decoration of five concentric circles arranged in a cruciform pattern. Each of the five circles is placed at an equal distance from the next one, creating a balanced and symmetrical look. This motif represents the five wounds of Jesus Christ and is meant to remind the Christian wearer of how Christ suffered and the ultimate sacrifice he made for humanity.Size: D: 19.15mm / US: 9 1/4 / UK: S; 4.87gProvenance: Private London collector, acquired on the UK Art market, pre-2000.
Lot 260
Ca. 800-1000 AD. A reliquary cross pendant crafted from bronze. It features subtly flared terminals and is adorned with inscriptions written in Greek. The reliquary cross is an important part of Christian history and art. It is a type of religious object, usually made of precious metals, and often containing a relic such as a splinter from the cross of Jesus. It is believed to protect and heal the wearer, and offer spiritual aid. For a type, see The British Museum, Museum number 1980,1020.1.Size: L:64.3mm / W:34.6mm ; 13.05gProvenance: Private London collector, acquired on the UK Art market, pre-2000.
Lot 262
Ca. 1100 AD. A bronze cruciform pendant with four arms with segmented decoration and flaring outwards finials. A rounded suspension loop projects from the top. The Cross is the principal symbol of Christianity, recalling the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ and the redeeming benefits of his Passion and death. The cross is thus a sign both of Christ himself and of the faith of Christians. This item reflects the enduring value of the cross as an enduring symbol of faith through the ages. Good condition; a beautiful patina.Size: L:31.8mm / W:24mm ; 5.54gProvenance: Private London collector, acquired on the UK Art market, pre-2000.
Lot 263
Ca. 1100-1400 AD. A bronze finger ring composed of a flat-sectioned, round hoop that expands to form an octagonal-shaped bezel with slightly rounded corners. The hoop is composed of a light bronze that has been etched on the shoulders, while the octagonal bezel is slightly larger and thicker, finely decorated with a bold cross, the symbol of Christianity, within a cruciform frame, with moon crescents at each corner. Cross symbolism has been an integral part of Christian medieval jewellery since the early ages. It served as a reminder of the core tenets of faith, as well as a vehicle for conveying spiritual messages. The cross often appeared in a variety of shapes and sizes, from simple geometric designs to elaborate ornaments. In its simplest form, the cross was used to represent the four quarters of the world, while more intricate designs could represent the twelve tribes of Israel.Size: D: 18.61mm / US: 8 5/8/ UK: R 1/2; 4.68gProvenance: Private London collector, acquired on the UK Art market, pre-2000.
Lot 264
Ca. 1000 AD. A bronze reliquary cross pendant featuring a Latin cross design with a low relief Virgin Mary Oranta at the center. The Oranta is a traditional Christian iconography of the Virgin Mary standing in adoration with her arms outstretched. The reliquary was popular in the Eastern Roman Empire, also known as Byzantium, and was used to honor saints and other holy figures. The cross was often decorated with intricate carvings and designs, often featuring scenes from the Bible. It also often contained a compartment to store a relic in, which could be a piece of cloth or bone from a saint or a nail from the crucifixion.Size: L:69.6mm / W:35.3mm ; 17.66gProvenance: Private London collector, acquired on the UK Art market, pre-2000.
Lot 265
Ca. 500-600 AD. A bronze ring with a circular hoop, flat on the inside, and slightly rounded on the outside with a raised circular boss at the rear and a lovely decoration composed of several, vertically oriented double lines, meticulously etched on the surface. The applied shield-shaped bezel bears the design that corresponds with the design of the band.Size: D: 18.19mm / US: 8 / UK: Q; 8.44gProvenance: Private London collector, acquired on the UK Art market, pre-2000.
Lot 268
Ca. 1100-1300 AD. A highly detailed bronze cruciform pendant incorporating a vast array of ornate design elements. The cross arms have both a distinct angular look and a series of intricate line work that circles around each arm. The protrusions extending from each arm also contain similar stylized line work, adding to the pendant's stunning appearance. Medieval cross pendants were a popular form of jewelry in the Middle Ages, worn by people of all ages and social classes. Crosses were a symbol of faith, often used in processions and holy days, and they were believed to have a protective power. Cross pendants varied in design, size, and material.Size: L:30mm / W:20.9mm ; 4.03gProvenance: Private London collector, acquired on the UK Art market, pre-2000.
Lot 269
Ca. 500-600 AD. A bronze ring with a plain, flat-section hoop engraved on the shoulders with chevron designs. A large, circular bezel bears an incised cross pattern with accompanying curvilinear motifs. The Cross, the principal symbol of Christianity, recalling the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ and the redeeming benefits of his Passion and death. The cross is thus a sign both of Christ himself and of the faith of Christians.Size: D: 17.75mm / US: 7 1/2 / UK: P; 4.89gProvenance: Private London collector, acquired on the UK Art market, pre-2000.
Lot 27
Ca. 202 BC - 220 AD. A rare and ornate pottery goose. The bird is standing on its stylised, well-defined bronze legs which support a globular body and elegantly slender neck terminating in a black-coloured head with a red beak and open, attentive eyes. The body is decorated with polychrome plumage. Geese were a major motif in Han dynasty era poetry and were typically distinguished between two types of geese, the domestic goose, and the wild goose. This piece has been precisely dated by means of a Thermo Luminescence analysis carried out by Ralf Kotalla, an independent German Laboratory. The samples collected date the piece to the period reflected in its style, whilst also showing no modern trace elements. The TL certificate with its full report will accompany this lot.Size: L:270mm / W:205mm ; 885gProvenance: From the private collection of a Somerset gentleman; previously in an old British collection, formed in the 1980s on the UK /European art markets.
Lot 272
Ca. 1100-1400 AD. A beautiful and detailed bronze cross pendant of a Latin cross design, with flared, engraved arms and a central Maltese cross. The Maltese cross is a symbol of eight points, each representing one of the eight Beatitudes of Jesus Christ: faith, hope, charity, fortitude, justice, prudence, temperance, and wisdom.Size: L:42.4mm / W:26mm ; 3.73gProvenance: Private London collector, acquired on the UK Art market, pre-2000.
Lot 274
Ca. 1000-1300 AD. A cruciform pendant crafted from bronze features four circular terminals with a raised dot at the center of each. A suspension loop at the top provides a perfect finishing touch. The reverse is left unworked to add to the pendant's unique charm. Cross pendants have been used in the Byzantine Empire since the 4th century as a symbol of the Christian faith. As Christianity grew in the Empire, the cross became a widely used symbol in the production of jewelry, coins, and other objects. The design of the cross varied, and small pendants often had a depiction of the Virgin Mary, Jesus, or other religious figures. Cf. The British Museum, Museum number 1880,0501.8.Size: L:28.1mm / W:22.3mm ; 4.15gProvenance: Private London collector, acquired on the UK Art market, pre-2000.
Lot 275
Ca. 1100–1400 AD. A bronze finger ring with a circular band, that slightly expands to support a large, oval-shaped bezel decorated with the star of Bethlehem - a recurrent decorating motif in Medieval jewellery, and a powerful symbol of Christian tradition. According to the Gospel of Matthew (2: 1– 2), three wise men from the East (the Magi) travelled to Jerusalem guided by the Bethlehem star to greet the King of the Jews, i.e. Jesus.Size: D: 16.71mm / US: 6 1/4 / UK: M; 5.64gProvenance: Private London collector, acquired on the UK Art market, pre-2000.
Lot 276
Ca. 1100-1400 AD. A bronze cross pendant features slightly flaring arms and an engraved figure with outstretched arms on the obverse. The reverse side is left unworked, giving the pendant an air of simple elegance. The suspension loop at the top allows the wearer to attach it to a necklace or other jewelry.Size: L:36.2mm / W:27.2mm ; 10.96gProvenance: Private London collector, acquired on the UK Art market, pre-2000.
Lot 277
Ca. 1100–1400 AD. A bronze finger ring comprising a round hoop and applied large circular bezel, featuring a star of Bethlehem motif framed with etched borders. The Star of Bethlehem is a significant symbol that has been used throughout the centuries to represent Christianity. During the Crusades, it was popularly used in Christian jewellery to symbolize the birth of Jesus Christ and honor his divine mission. The star was also used to signify the triumph of the Christian faith over the Muslim forces.Size: D: 17.93mm / US: 7 3/4 / UK: P; 6.4gProvenance: Private London collector, acquired on the UK Art market, pre-2000.
Lot 278
Ca. 600-800 AD. A bronze cross pendant meticulously crafted from bronze, with flaring terminals that give the piece a unique and dynamic look. At the junction and at each arm, there is a concentric circles motif that embodies the five wounds of Christ. This motif found in many Christian artifacts, including bronze cross pendants, is a representation of the suffering of Jesus Christ during his crucifixion. The five wounds typically consist of the wounds on Christ’s hands, feet, and side. For a similar, see The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Accession Number: 37.75.39.Size: L:33.1mm / W:25.2mm ; 3.93gProvenance: Private London collector, acquired on the UK Art market, pre-2000.
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