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LOT 0539
Greek Terracotta Protome Mask
LATE 6TH-EARLY 5TH CENTURY B.C.
4 1/8 in. (133 grams, 10.5 cm).
Modelled as a female head with rounded oval face, slightly bulging eyes and pronounced chin, indistinct smiling mouth with thin lips, outline of ears; low straight polos with fastening hole. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceAcquired 1970s-1996.
Property of a North American collector.
London collection, 2016.
Cf. Van Rooijen, G., Goddesses of Akragas, a study of terracotta votive figurines from Sicily, Leiden, 2021, nos.96, 163, for similar.
FootnotesThe figure belongs to a common type known from mainland Greece and the islands. The head clearly shows the so-called 'Archaic smile' visible on the dedicatory protomes of the same typology. They were terracotta votive offerings attached with a nail to the shrine of a goddess for ex-voto or to receive the grace of the represented goddess (Demeter?).
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AUCTIONS:
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Hellenistic Bronze Ring with Lion Attacking a Warrior
Circa 3rd-1st century B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £39
With narrow flat-bottomed hoop, ellipsoid bezel with incuse combat scene of a standing human figure with a shield seizing a rearing lion. 9.17 grams, 24.52 mm overall, 19.78 mm internal diameter (approximate size British Q 1/2, USA 8 1/4, Europe 18.12, Japan 17)
Ex old English collection. London art market, pre 2000. Property of a London, UK, gentleman. -
Hellenistic Gold Earrings with Gemstones
Circa 2nd-1st century B.C.Estimate: £1,200 - 1,700 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £625
Matched pair of gold earrings, each wire hoop with hook-and-eye closure, ellipsoid shield with beaded rim and cell with carnelian cabochon, free-running dangle with filigree crocketting and granule cluster. 3.85 grams total, 40 mm each
From a collection of a London lady, acquired annually during 1990s-2000s.
