Loading, please wait...
LOT 0534
Italic Bronze Bow Brooch
8TH-7TH CENTURY B.C.
3 1/2 in. (32 grams, 88 mm).
With a simple curved arch decorated with engraved banding; integral pin and large catchplate. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceFrom the family collection of a Surrey gentleman since before 1960.
LiteratureCf. Richardson, A., In search of the Samnites: Adornment and Identity in Archaic Central Italy, 750-350 B.C., figs.5.13, p.54, for similar simple arch fibula.
FootnotesChronological and geographical variations of the Italic fibulae are dependent on the decoration of the arch. The use of bronze and iron (and even silver and electrum in the south) is less of a factor within the individual type series than it is for the overall trend of styles. The rare use of iron in the seventh century and increasingly frequent use throughout the sixth century never rivalled the popularity of bronze, which remained more practical and convenient for working with familiar techniques.
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:
TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.
-
Hellenistic Terracotta Head of a Youth
3rd century B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £18,200
Tousled curly hair, strong aquiline nose and full mouth; the deep eyes marked by raised eyelids and prominent semi-circular eyebrows; the hair arranged in overlapping rows of locks; repaired; mounted on a later porphyry plinth. 1.40 kg total, 23.5 cm high including stand
From the estates of the late Adrian Stanford and Norman St John-Stevas, Baron St John of Fawsley. with the previous owner since 1982. with Christie's, London, South Kensington, 22 February 2017, lot 10. Accompanied by an academic report by Dr Raffaele D’Amato. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.11774-204595.
The head represents a Hellenistic portrait of a young man, whose characteristics seem to suggest a reference to a youthful portrait of Alexander the Great. Another possibility is that it represents the portrait of Alexander’s companion, Hephaestion. -
Greek Bronze Bow Fibula
8th-7th century B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £111
Arched bow with a central bulb and ribbed collar, integral pin and large catch-plate. 93 grams, 99 mm
From the family collection of a Surrey gentleman since before 1960.
The function of the catch-plate fibulae 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. Our fibula is an early type, very often found in the graves of the Greek colonies of Southern Italy and widespread in the Magna Graecia. This typology was introduced there by the Greeks. Like all female fibulae, it functioned as a clothing fastener, usually worn as a pair on each shoulder. -
Greek Bronze Furniture Fitting Group
3rd-2nd century B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £156
Comprising over 20 hollow-formed bicones. 790 grams total, 21-96 mm
Acquired 1960s-1990s. Late Alison Barker collection, a retired London barrister.