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LOT 0048
Greek Bronze Handle with Lion-Skin Head
CIRCA 5TH-4TH CENTURY B.C.
3 1/8 in. (159 grams, 80 mm).
Formed as the skinned head and forepaws of a lion, together with two lateral handles with fastening holes surmounted by a pearled edge.
ProvenanceAcquired on the UK art market 2000s.
LiteratureCf. Furtwängler, A., Olympia. Die Ergebnisse der von dem Deutschen Reich veranstalteten Ausgrabung Band 4. 2 Bände (Textband, Tafelband), Asher, Berlin, 1890, pl.TLV, nos.923-924, for similar handles.
FootnotesThe handle appears to be a device once attached to a wine vessel or pan-like vessels. The vessel handles were usually formed as divinities or animals linked with gods (ie. lions for Herakles). The lion's skin is hanging down like in the images representing Herakles resting and drinking after his labours.
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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LOT 0048
Greek Bronze Handle with Lion-Skin Head
Estimate £1,000 - 1,400€1,160 - 1,620 (for guidance only)$1,350 - 1,890 (for guidance only)
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Greek Gold Earrings
4th-3rd century B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £312
Each penannular in form with decoratively twisted body; one terminating in a lions' head, the other with the head of a woman wearing a necklace. 2.46 grams total, 18 mm each
Acquired 1970-2010. Collection of a late Japanese gentleman. -
Greek Bronze Vessel
3rd-2nd century B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £124
Composed of a bulbous body, short neck and everted rim, remains of handle beneath the rim; cracked and split, base absent. 504 grams, 18 cm high
Acquired 1990s-early 2000s. East Anglian private collection. -
Archaic Greek Gold Intaglio with Mythical Creature
Circa 8th century B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £780
The gold roundel displaying an incuse winged creature with the head of a human and body of an animal. 0.50 grams, 7 mm
Acquired 1969-1999. From the private collection of the late Mr S.M., London, UK, thence by descent.
