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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.
ProvenanceFrench 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.
Cf. Shelton, K.J., The Esquiline Treasure, London, 1981, item 27, for type.
FootnotesThe lateral incised cross motifs suggest that the spoon may have had a liturgical purpose, possibly associated with baptism.
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AUCTIONS:
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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)
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Byzantine Lead Cross Collection
6th-15th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £85
Including equal-arm, expanding-arm and other types; offered with a lead finger-ring master. 85 grams total, 18-41 mm
Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman. -
Byzantine Bronze Pendant Cross
10th-12th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £130
Expanding-arm type with a low-relief Maltese cross at the centre. 4.99 grams, 39 mm
Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman. -
Byzantine Bronze Ring with Saints
11th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £442
Comprising a D-section hoop and a large discoid bezel with two stylised nimbate figures dressed in short tunics. 6.46 grams, 22.33 mm overall, 19.15 mm internal diameter (approximate size British R 1/2, USA 8 3/4, Europe 19.38, Japan 18)
Acquired on the UK and EU art market before 2000. From the private collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.
The oval hoop, in this category of rings, gradually widens into a full shoulder and massive flattened head. The bezel is ellipsoidal, decorated with stylised images, most probably of military saints, invoking protection and blessing.
