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LOT 0526
Greek Geometric Period Bow Brooch
8TH-7TH CENTURY B.C.
3 3/4 in. (55 grams, 95 mm).
Keeled bow with central bulb, integral pin and large, square catch plate. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceFrom the family collection of a Surrey gentleman since before 1960.
LiteratureCf. Moon-Ja, K., ‘A study on Ancient Fibulae’ in IJCC, vol.8, no.2, 2005, pp.71-84, fig.3, for the type.
FootnotesThe function of this type of fibula was utilitarian and decorative: they were used for woollen clothing (Herodotus V, 87) and they have been found in houses, tombs and as votive offerings in sanctuaries. This typology was introduced in South Italy by the Greeks, and was widespread in the Magna Graecia. Like all female fibulae, it functioned as a clothing fastener, usually worn as a pair on each shoulder.
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Hellenistic Bronze Decorated Mirror
2nd-1st century B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £260
With decorated reverse comprising raised central nipple surrounded by concentric circles, scalloped edge and spike for attachment to the handle. 164 grams, 15.2 cm
Ex old English collection. London art market, 1980s. -
Greek Bronze Bow Brooch
8th-7th century B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £156
The keeled bow with a large central boss, integral pin and rectangular footplate. 55.9 grams, 72 mm
From the family collection of a Surrey gentleman since before 1960.
The distinctive form of this fibula seems to be an Italic variant of characteristic Geometric period examples from Thessaly that have been discovered in large numbers, for example in the sanctuary of Zeus Thaulios near Pharos. It belongs to the category of Greek catch plate brooches, although the rectangular footplate is substantially reduced compared to the Greek prototypes. -
Graeco-Phoenician Stone Scaraboid with Winged Beast in Gold Swivel Ring
Circa 7th-5th century B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £546
The scaraboid engraved to one face with a winged creature facing left, possibly a gryphon, a star in the field above; set in a later gold ring with round cross-section and stamped maker's mark in a triangular cartouche; articulate swivel. 7.68 grams, 30.50 mm overall, 20.15 mm internal diameter (approximate size British T 1/2, USA 9 3/4, Europe 21.89, Japan 21)
Collected since the 1970s. Ex Everitt collection, acquired by descent 2017.
