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LOT 0215
Byzantine Gold Ring with Holy Rider
6TH-7TH CENTURY A.D.
3/4 in. (4.00 grams, 21.79 mm overall, 18.33 mm internal diameter (approximate size British O 1/2, USA 7 1/4, Europe 15.61, Japan 15)).
Comprising a round-section hoop with tablet-bezel depicting a military saint on horseback (probably Saint George) advancing right, the nimbate saint holding a large cross in his right hand. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceEx Axia Art, London, UK.
Property of a North American gallery.
Accompanied by a positive scientific statement from Striptwist Limited, a London-based company run by historical precious metal specialist Dr Jack Ogden, reference number 170705.
This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.12117-214328.
Cf. Papanikola-Bakirtzi, D. (ed.), Everyday life in Byzantium. Byzantine Hours. Works and days in Byzantium, Exhibition catalogue, Thessaloniki, White Tower, October 2001-January 2002, Athens, 2002, no.573, for the type.
FootnotesThis type of ring belongs to a typical category of the period in question, made with high-quality materials, and decorated with images of saints to invoke their protection. The presence of Saint George on this ring could refer to an owner of high military rank.
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With flared shoulders and octagonal plaque, incuse bird with wings spread in a naive linear style. 2.74 grams, 21.40 mm overall, 18.73 mm internal diameter (approximate size British R, USA 8 1/2, Europe 18 3/4, Japan 18)
Private collection formed since the 1940s. UK art market. Property of an Essex gentleman. -
Large Byzantine Inscribed Bronze Glove Ring with Swan
Circa 15th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £312
With facetted shoulders and octagonal bezel, central swan motif surrounded by enigmatic Greek text 'IOHMOK HΠ[.]IKO'. 12.22 grams, 25.54 mm overall, 21.20 mm internal diameter (approximate size British X 1/2, USA 11 3/4, Europe 26.92, Japan 25)
Private collection formed since the 1940s. UK art market. Property of an Essex gentleman.
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Byzantine Gold Roundel of a Standing Saint
Late 10th-early 11th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £546
Sheet gold disc with three holes close to the rim for attachment of links (two damaged); repoussé facing image of a nimbate saint standing wearing a knee-length tunic with decorative hatched panel to the front, calf-length cloak with hatched texture, disc brooch beneath the chin, both arms raised in the orans gesture. 1.19 grams, 23 mm
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