Scythian Bronze Antelope Mount

Substantial labrys with flared and curved edges, elliptoid socket to the centre. 973 grams, 17.5 cm



Gifted to the previous owner's husband by his grandfather prior to 1919 while in Crete. Taken to Paris and brought to the UK before 1985. Acquired from Bonhams, London, 20 October 2005, no.124. From an important Cambridgeshire estate; thence by descent. Accompanied by copies of the relevant Bonhams catalogue pages.

The double axe was both a tool, weapon and one of the main religious symbol in Minoan Crete. It was as significant and as important in Minoan religious practice as the ritual horn and the pillar.

With broad flat foot and short stem, broad bowl with carination at the shoulder and two strap shoulders; under each handle an ivy leaf; a painted frieze in coarse style on the outer face comprising two scenes of satyrs and maenads, some on horseback; the centre with a winged Pegasus; foot restored. 368 grams, 27 cm wide

Fine condition, foot restored.

From a private German collection, 1960s. 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.12014-213567.

The kylix is pertinent to the style of the Haimon painter, who flourished in the first half of 5th century B.C., especially in the rendering of the facial features, and feet. The imagery on the exterior of kylikes used in the symposia varied a lot.

Including chalice, amphora and other fragments. 1.5 kg total, 4-20.5 cm



From a collection acquired on the UK art market from various auction houses and collections mostly before 2000. From an important Cambridgeshire estate; thence by descent.