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LOT 0068
Etruscan Carnelian Scarab of a Charioteer in Gold Ring
LATE 4TH CENTURY B.C.
1 in. (4.26 grams, 25.07 mm overall, 17.77 x 16.22 mm internal diameter (approximate size British O, USA 7, Europe 14.98, Japan 14)).
Opaque scaraboid engraved in globolo style with a dynamic scene of a charioteer driving a biga with his whip raised; set in a later sheet-gold mount and swivel ring, possibly 19th century; supplied with a museum-quality impression.
ProvenancePrivate English collection, formed between the late 1970s and early 1990s.
Private collection, UK.
This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.12948-245985.
See The British Museum, London, accession no.1872,0604.33, for a similar scarab retaining its original gold casing.
FootnotesIn line with trends introduced from the Eastern Mediterranean increasing use was made by the Etruscans of war chariots, even more luxurious in appearance and faced with embossed sheets of bronze. In addition to transporting warriors, they proved an effective means of controlling outlying areas, and in case were status symbols of great prestige. The Orientalizing period also saw the importation of swift and nimble breeds that were particularly suited for use as cavalry mounts.
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AUCTIONS:
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LOT 0068
Etruscan Carnelian Scarab of a Charioteer in Gold Ring
Sold for (Inc. bp): £2,860
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Greek Bronze Ring with Centaur
3rd-2nd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £286
With a slender hoop and an oval bezel with a galloping centaur facing back with his arms raised. 3.40 grams, 22.48 mm overall, 18.34 mm internal diameter (approximate size British Q, USA 8, Europe 17.49, Japan 16)
Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman. -
Greek Silver Ring with Seated Goddess Holding a Dove
Hellenistic, 4th-2nd century B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £260
Featuring a round-section hoop and a large oval bezel with a seated goddess holding a dove with open wings. 6.35 grams, 23.20 mm overall, 19.55 x 12.60 mm internal diameter (approximate size British I, USA 4 1/4, Europe 7.44, Japan 7)
From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s. -
Large Greek Bronze Double-Headed Animal Terminal
Geometric, 8th-6th century B.C.Estimate: £1,200 - 1,700 (‡+bp*)
Opening Bid: £600
Comprising a crescentic body with a slender neck at each end, topped by a bird-head with a rectangular crest, vertical legs with raised block detailing conjoined at the lower end into a mounting peg. 55.6 grams, 86 mm
Ex collection Mr K.H., Germany. Private collection, acquired in 2012. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.13077-246757.
Bird figures, standing on plates or discs, are found as votives mainly in Northern Greek sanctuaries of the Geometric Age. They should be regarded as symbolic and sometimes modest gifts to the gods. Some birds were also designed as pendants. The present fitting resembles a rooster, but it could also represent a peacock, and hence is connected with the goddess Hera.
