LOT 0115

Roman Gold Eagle Pendant

2ND CENTURY B.C.-2ND CENTURY A.D.

1 in. (2.83 grams, 27 mm).

Depicted as a standing eagle with closed wings, long striated tail extending to the small pedestal; with detailing to wings, beak, eyes and feathers; a filigree collar with small medallion around the neck; holding a small rabbit in its claws; suspension loop to the back.

From a private family collection formed since the early 19th century, thence by descent.
Property of a New Zealand legal professional.

This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.12329-223711.

Cf. Heath, J., ‘The Omen of the Eagles and Hare (Agamemnon 104-59): From Aulis to Argos and Back Again’ in The Classical Quarterly, Vol.51, No.1 (2001), pp.18-22; for Graeco-Roman pendants eagle-shaped (earrings or necklaces parts) see Marshall, F.H., Catalogue of the Jewellery, Greek, Etruscan, and Roman, in the department of Antiquities, British Museum, London, 1911, nos.1930, 1933.

The motif of an eagle and hare is linked with the story of the Trojan War. On their way towards Troy, the two brothers Agamemnon and Menelaus, the Atreides, saw two eagles swoop down upon a pregnant hare and tear her to shreds. They interpreted it as a good omen: the two eagles were the warrior brothers, and the hare Troy.