Large Greek Bronze Double-Headed Animal Terminal

拍品描述

Geometric, 8th-6th century B.C. Comprising a crescentic body with a slender neck at each end, topped by a bird-head with a rectangular crest, vertical legs with raised block detailing conjoined at the lower end into a mounting peg. Cf. for similar fittings, Christiansen, J., Greece in the Geometric Period, Copenhagen, 1992, figs.70ff., esp.40,44,49-50. 55.6 grams, 86 mm (3 3/8 in.). (For this specific lot, 5% import VAT is applicable on the hammer price.) Ex collection Mr K.H., Germany. Private collection, acquired in 2012. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.13077-246757. Bird figures, standing on plates or discs, are found as votives mainly in Northern Greek sanctuaries of the Geometric Age. They should be regarded as symbolic and sometimes modest gifts to the gods. Some birds were also designed as pendants. The present fitting resembles a rooster, but it could also represent a peacock, and hence is connected with the goddess Hera. TimeLine Auctions follows a rigorous vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists. See our website for more information.

图片