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LOT 0543
Greek Bronze Human-Headed Sphinx
CIRCA 4TH CENTURY B.C.
2 1/4 in. (86 grams, 57 mm).
Formed standing facing with wings spread, directed backwards, female head with stylised detailing; semi-circular base to the rear with vertical strut joined to wing tips; possibly a furniture fitting.
ProvenanceFrom an important collection formed pre 1988, Geneva and London, by descent.
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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Greek Gold Pomegranate on Gold Chain
1st millennium B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £520
The fruit with granulated base and length of trichinopoly chan. 3.42 grams, 90 mm
From the private collection of the late Mr S.M., London, UK, thence by descent. -
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Scythian Bronze Mirror with Panther Handle
5th-4th century B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £2,340
Comprising a discoid body with raised rim, ribbed handle and openwork stylised panther to the terminal; mounted on a custom-made display stand; some restoration. 1.8 kg total, 45 cm high including stand
Acquired 1971-1972. From the collection of the vendor's father. Property of a London, UK, collector. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.202711.
The 'Olbian type' mirror takes its name from the Greek colony of Olbia, a port on the Black Sea, which enjoyed close commercial links with the neighbouring Scythian territories. Olbian mirrors form an important element in this trade network, although whether the craftsmen who made them were Scythians or Greeks working in Scythian style for the Black Sea market is still undecided. The animal ornament of the mirrors reproduces the zoomorphic art used elsewhere by the Scythian elite. -
Graeco-Persian Bronze Ring Group
2nd century B.C. and laterSold for (Inc. bp): £312
Mainly featuring convex hops, stepped shoulders and oval or elliptical bezel, most displaying an incuse animal, figural or other motif. 54 grams total, 24-26 mm
Ex private collection, 1980s. Acquired on the UK art market in the 1990s.
