Loading, please wait...
Details
LOT 0207
Byzantine Silver Swan-Necked Ligula Spoon with Cross
5TH-7TH CENTURY A.D.
9 in. (46 grams, 22.7 cm).
Shallow piriform bowl attached to a stepped baluster, hexagonal-section handle with spike finial; engraved cross potent to either side of the junction.
Provenance
French private collection.
Acquired on the French art market in 2011.
Acquired by the present owner at the above.
This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.12240-222347.
Literature
Cf. Shelton, K.J., The Esquiline Treasure, London, 1981, item 27, for type.
Footnotes
The lateral incised cross motifs suggest that the spoon may have had a liturgical purpose, possibly associated with baptism.
CONDITIONVETTING:
TimeLine 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:
TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.
LOT 0207
Byzantine Silver Swan-Necked Ligula Spoon with Cross
Estimate £1,500 - 2,000€1,740 - 2,320 (for guidance only)$2,030 - 2,700 (for guidance only)
RELATED LOTS
-
Byzantine Rock Crystal Stamp Seal in Silver Pendant with Military Saint on Horseback
Circa 6th-7th century A.D.Estimate: £1,600 - 2,000 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £800
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 Bronze Ring with Dove
12th-15th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £26
With slender hoop and baluster to each shoulder, ellipsoid bezel with incuse perching bird motif. 5.12 grams, 25.42 mm overall, 21.22 mm internal diameter (approximate size British U, USA 10, Europe 22.52, Japan 21)
Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman. -
Byzantine Bronze Fitting with Christ and Saint
6th-8th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £39
Discoid in plan with suspension lugs to the raised rim; obverse with nimbate figure of Christ flanked by 'ICXC' legend; reverse nimbate figure in orans posture. 5.33 grams, 33 mm
Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.
