Loading, please wait...
LOT 0064
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 as in representations of 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:
TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.
-
Greek Decorated Bronze Spiral Bracelet
8th-7th century B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £585
Formed as a spiral D-section rod with waisted profile, hatched and notched ornament to the edges. 685 grams, 11.5 cm
Private Swiss collection, acquired 2002. -
Greek Terracotta Head of a Woman
3rd-2nd century B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £2,860
With elaborate band of curls to the brow; spout or hole to the rear of the head; mounted on a custom-made display stand with old lot sticker to base. 675 grams total, 19 cm high including stand
Private European collection. with Genève Enchères, 12th December 2017, lot 861. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.11612-199036. -
Cypriot Terracotta Female Figurine Holding a Child
650-600 B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £468
With flared base, press-moulded facial detail, irregular arms encircling a naïve figure of a swaddled baby; old inked collector's number '113' to reverse and label with same; later drilled hole to underside. 87 grams, 82 mm
Collection of Louis-Gabriel Bellon (1819-1899), Saint-Nicolas-lez-Arras and Rouen, thence by descent. with Millon & Associes Auctions, Paris, 6th December 2021, lot 41 [Part].
