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LOT 2104
European Bronze Lion Statuette
SPAIN, 19TH CENTURY A.D.
3 1/2 in. (404 grams, 89 mm).
Modelled in the round in crouching pose with jaws open and tail curled over the back. [No Reserve]
ProvenancePrivate collection, UK.
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
AUCTIONS:
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Post-Classical Red Agate Gemstone with Omphale
19th-20th century A.D.Estimate: £500 - 700 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £250
Elipsoid in plan with domed obverse; intaglio with Omphale standing nude on a baseline, right hand on her hip and supporting her club with her left; at her feet an Apulian trozella vessel; supplied with a museum-quality impression. 4.13 grams, 25 mm
Private collection, England.
The figure bears the classic symbol of Hercules - the club - but the details of her nude body and lack of beard indicate that this is a female. Omphale was the queen of Lydia, daughter of the river Lardanos. According to myth, Hercules was a slave to the beautiful queen for three years and was forced by her to dress as a woman and spin wool, giving up his lion's head. It was Omphale who donned her lion's head and wielded the club, as depicted in this intaglio, an allegory of submission and revenge in love. An interesting post-classical work. -
Medieval Silver Pendant with Mother-of-Pearl Scene of Virgin and Child
Germany, 15th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £2,210
Tear-shaped frame with loop and irregular dangle below; carved nacre relief of the Virgin and Child; Mother of God shown crowned and in profile, tenderly supporting the Christ Child on her lap; applied gold Corpus Christi to reverse. 20.5 grams, 70 mm
Private collection, Europe. Acquired on the German art market. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.13056-248332.
The carving, with its luminous iridescence and softly modelled planes, captures both the sacred intimacy of the subject and the shimmering qualities of the material. The mount is worked in silver with chased foliate detail and suspends a natural baroque pearl drop. The reverse is finely engraved with radiating rays, clouds, and the inscription INRI, centred by a parcel-gilt figure of the Crucified Christ affixed to the ground. This juxtaposition of the Virgin and Child with the Passion underscores the dual themes of Incarnation and Redemption, reflecting late medieval devotional practices. -
Mosaic Glass Bead Collection
20th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £20
Fusiform, tubular and other types with dragged trails and other ornament. 138 grams total, 39-87 mm
Private collection, UK.
