Cypriot Terracotta Archaic Male Head

Flat-section hoop and discoid cell with inset panel, filigree ropework border enclosing band of U-shaped filigree and repoussé central motif of a facing bust with applied granule detailing. 4.14 grams, 23.21 mm overall, 18.15 x 16.08 mm internal diameter (approximate size British N, USA 6 1/2, Europe 13.72, Japan 13)



Private collection, Germany. with Artemis Gallery, Munich, 1990s. Private European collection, 2001. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by a search certificate number no.12091-218184.

Hollow-formed in the shape of a hare at rest with long ears parallel to the spine, vent to the chest; with spot markings to the flanks. 82 grams, 86 mm



Acquired on the German art market, 1989-1995. with The Museum Gallery, 19 Bury Place, London, WC1A 2JB, 1998-2003. Property of a London based academic, 2003-present.

Mould-made aryballoi (perfume flasks) in the shapes of animals were popular in Greece in the 7th and 6th centuries B.C. Aristocratic men gave real hares as gifts to younger male lovers; this vessel might have performed a similar function.

With a flared and carinated foot, meander patterns around the lower body, band of rosettes encircling the neck, gusseted handles with masks to the outer faces opening to two columnar legs, broad shoulder with loops flanking the handles; red-figure scenes to the neck and body: Side a: above, a quadriga with Nike at the reins, wings spread; below, naiskos with flanking columns, hero standing beside his horse, resting on his spear, wearing a muscled armour, surrounded by seated and reclining females and youths in various poses, one of the youths holding the hero's pointed boots in his hand; Side b: above, a palmette, below column with decorative ribbons flanked by two seated males and two females offering votive gifts; some restoration. 13.85 kg, 78.5 cm high



Private collection, Neuchâtel, Switzerland. Ex collection H.& P. Payot, Clarens, by descent. Accompanied 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 a search certificate number no.12066-218199.

Monumental kraters such as this one are typical of the Apulian red-figure production that developed between circa 440 and 300 B.C. in the region of the Greek colonies of Taranto and Metaponto in Southern Italy, where they were used as tomb markers in cemeteries. Here the painter focuses on the celebration of the hero-warrior, surrounded by young women and men, the image of the victorious leader is emphasised by the full panoply and iconography of Nike.