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LOT 0095
Greek Terracotta Head Collection
3RD-2ND CENTURY B.C.
3 3/4 - 5 3/8 in. (491 grams total, 9.5-13.5 cm high including stand).
Each modelled in the round and and derived from a larger female figure, some wearing diadems and some with draped heads; each mounted on a custom-made display base. [4]
ProvenanceAcquired in the 1970s.
Ex European private collection.
This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.11795-206534.
Cf. Summerer, L., Hellenistische Terrakotten aus Amisos: ein Beitrag zur Kunstgeschichte des Pontosgebietes, Stuttgart, 1999, figs.S II, 12,S II,16, for a similar draped head and for a female head in terracotta.
FootnotesThese figurines reflect sculptural prototypes. Interestingly the head of one of the women is draped in a himation, and the head is turned slightly to the right like the terracotta of Amisos which represents a dancer. These figurines were most probably manufactured in Hellenistic cities by craftsmen who used either light yellow or dark brown clay. After the firing, the surface of the clay became reddish, while the core became grey-brown. The majority of the figurines were made from untreated clay with many impurities, such as coarse grain. Due to the quality of the clay the surface of the figurines was often rugged, despite the retouch, but were painted with vivid colours, as is still visible on the pink polos on one of the heads.
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AUCTIONS:
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Greek Large Gold Dolphin Pendant
Circa 4th-3rd century B.C.Estimate: £600 - 800 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £300
Formed as an amphora with dolphin handles, the body composed of a biconical jasper bead, repoussé and filigree detailing to the animals, suspension loops between; restored. 4.68 grams, 33 mm
From a late Japanese specialist collector, 1970-2000s. -
Greek Corinthian Ceramic Alabastron with Geometric Design
Circa 6th century B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £221
The piriform bottle with broad everted rim and strap handle, polychrome painted dashes and concentric bands to the upper body and rim; accompanied by a custom-made display stand. 36 grams total, 77 mm high including stand
Acquired 1980s-1990s. From the H.N. collection, Milton Keynes, Bedfordshire, UK.
The alabastron takes its name from the material (alabaster) from which it was originally produced by the people who inhabited Mediterranean Africa from where it spread in the classical world. From an archaeological point of view, our specimen belongs to the first type of alabastrons, a conventional form of Corinthian origin, widespread throughout Greece from the second half of the 7th century BC. to the mid-6th century B.C., characterised by an elongated body with a maximum diameter towards the base, and continuous profile. It seems to be an Etrusco-Corinthian variant. -
Life-Size Etruscan Terracotta Foot
Circa 200 B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £3,900
From a statue; left foot with detailed lacing to the sandal; integral wedge below to provide the correct angle for the foot and ankle. 3.1 kg total, 28 cm wide including stand
From the collection of Platon Hobson (29 January 1937-3 December 2022), local dealer and previously a costumier in the film industry.
