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LOT 0922
Byzantine Gold Heart-Shaped Fitting
CIRCA 6TH-8TH CENTURY A.D.
1 in. (2.93 grams, 24 mm).
Openwork bead or pendant with heart-shaped frame and three domes to the obverse, each formed as a filigree cage; one with cell at the apex and the others with knop finials; granules to the obverse, filigree swirls to the reverse.
ProvenanceEx property of a late Japanese collector, 1970-2000s.
CONDITIONTimeLine Auctions follows a 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: Our Vetting Process
AUCTIONS:
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Byzantine Rock Crystal Stamp Seal in Silver Pendant with Military Saint on Horseback
Circa 6th-7th century A.D.Estimate: £3,000 - 4,000 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £1,500
With a tapering octagonal body, the military saint on horseback holding a long spear, the horse wearing a detailed harness; set in a conical silver frame with suspension loop and crenellated edge. 7.9 grams, 30 mm
From an old New Zealand private collection. Acquired on the New Zealand art market circa 2014. Property of a New Zealand legal professional. Accompanied by an academic report by Dr Raffaele D’Amato. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.12327-223721.
The motif of a saint on horseback was common in the Romano-Christian culture of the 6th-7th centuries. The figure of a saint symbolised protection of the local church or monastery and its community, and could also be related to the priest leader of the community, as their personal seal. -
Byzantine Iron Ring Silver-Gilt Monogram
5th-7th century A.D.Estimate: £250 - 350 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £100
Discoid bezel with inset gilt panel, monogram comprising the letters mu, alpha, omega, tau and possibly others. 4.93 grams, 26.33 mm overall, 18.96 mm internal diameter (approximate size British R 1/2, USA 8 3/4, Europe 19.38, Japan 18)
From the private collection of Mr K.A., acquired in the 1990s-early 2000s.
The complex letter monograms seen on these rings are sometimes referred to as 'merchant's marks' and would normally be a personal mark giving a name or phrase of significance to the owner. -
Byzantine Terracotta Pilgrim Flask with a Saint
6th century A.D.Estimate: £1,200 - 1,700 (‡+bp*)
Opening Bid: £600
Piriform in profile with two thick lug handles to the shoulder, obverse with low-relief facing figure holding a large cross and orb, reverse with facing figure with hand held up in the orans posture; with a display stand. 47.2 grams, 77 mm (71.4 grams total, 91 mm including stand)
Ex private collection, Mrs L.S., 1990s. Acquired from the above, 2001. Private European collection. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by a search certificate number no.12110-218216.