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LOT 0521
Etruscan Relief Fragment with Papposilenus
CIRCA 5TH CENTURY B.C.
7 1/8 in. (1.53 kg, 18 cm).
Roughly bell-shaped in profile with scooped rear face and socket to base; rim to upper edge above facing image of a grotesque bearded male with arms angled and hands on his wrinkled abdomen. legs bent to each side, genitals resting on a stele; old collector's label 'L-16434' to top; Etruscan or Italic.
ProvenanceThe Erotica Collection Christian von Faber-Castell, Küsnacht ZH, Switzerland, since the late 1970s.
This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D’Amato.
'Kunst und Handwerk der Antike', Auction 15, Basel, 2 December 1983, no.197.
FootnotesChristian von Faber-Castell (born 1950) is a renowned German entrepreneur and art collector, best known as a member of the prominent Faber-Castell family, famed for their iconic writing instruments. A passionate advocate for art and culture, Christian von Faber-Castell curated an extensive and diverse private collection of erotica, spanning centuries and cultures. His collection reflects a deep appreciation for the interplay of beauty, sensuality, and artistic expression, bringing together rare and unique works that explore themes of intimacy and human connection. Pieces from this collection have been featured in notable exhibitions and are celebrated for their artistic and historical significance. This offering represents a rare opportunity to acquire works from one of the most fascinating and eclectic private collections of its kind.
CONDITIONTimeLine 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
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Cypriot Terracotta Mask with Helmet
6th-5th century B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £442
Modelled in the half-round with stylised facial features and wearing a large helmet; mounted on a custom-made display stand. 94 grams total, 50 mm (66 mm including stand)
with Hotel Drouot, Succession of Former collection Colonel W. Mutiaux, Paris, 5 September 1952, lot 66. Ex collection of Eugène Muriaux (1846-1925?). From the collection M.W., Paris, France, 1950-1970. Ex collection of Françoise and Claude Bourelier. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D’Amato.
The man's helmet is typically Phoenician-Cypriot. Therefore, it is possible to consider this terracotta as the portrait of a Cypriot warrior, with Greek and Phoenician elements. The artefact is part of ex-voto productions with Greek-Phoenician characteristics widespread throughout the Eastern Mediterranean. -
Mycenaean Straight-Sided Painted Alabastron
Late Helladic IIIB Period, 1300-1200 B.C.Estimate: £1,200 - 1,700 (‡+bp*)
Opening Bid: £600
Drum-shaped with a sloping shoulder, short neck, trumpet-style neck and mouth and a gently rounded base; three loop handles at regular intervals around the shoulder; reddish-brown painted geometric bands and cross-hatching against a cream slip. 190 grams, 93 mm wide
Ex private collection, Holland. Acquired from Royal Athena Gallery, 2003, stock no.LAE07/2500. Accompanied by an original Royal Athena label. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.11852-206835. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D’Amato. -
Hellenistic Glass African Head
Carthaginian, 2nd century B.C.Estimate: £100 - 140 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £50
Moulded in the round in black glass with short hair, casting seam around the edges. 1.57 grams, 17 mm
Acquired 1979-1999. London collection of the late Mr S.M., thence by descent. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D’Amato.
