Greek Grey Stone Bifacial Bead with Winged Creature and Star

Opaque scaraboid engraved in globolo style with a dynamic scene of a charioteer driving a biga with his whip raised; set in a later sheet-gold mount and swivel ring, possibly 19th century; supplied with a museum-quality impression. 4.26 grams, 25.07 mm overall, 17.77 x 16.22 mm internal diameter (approximate size British O, USA 7, Europe 14.98, Japan 14)



Private English collection, formed between the late 1970s and early 1990s. Private collection, UK. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.12948-245985.

In line with trends introduced from the Eastern Mediterranean increasing use was made by the Etruscans of war chariots, even more luxurious in appearance and faced with embossed sheets of bronze. In addition to transporting warriors, they proved an effective means of controlling outlying areas, and in case were status symbols of great prestige. The Orientalizing period also saw the importation of swift and nimble breeds that were particularly suited for use as cavalry mounts.

Comprising four head fragments, one fragment of the upper torso of a male, and a bird fragment. 116 grams total, 37-72 mm



From the collection of a Cambridge, UK, gentleman, by direct descent from his father, who acquired the items in London in circa 1960.

Rounded body with large central filler hole and pointed lug on the shoulder, the rim with a low-relief ovolo decoration, elongated nozzle with scooped nozzle; low basal ring. 103 grams, 99 mm



From a UK collection formed in the 1980s. Property of an Essex, UK, gentleman.