Thracian Bronze Twisted Neck Torc

Formed from a round-section twisted rod forming a loop at one end, the other end hammered to a flat-section bar with a hooked end and punched pointillé decoration. 43 grams, 18 cm wide



Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.

Modelled in the round as a mounted warrior, the stylised horse modelled standing on stub legs, with a long neck, the warrior holding a shield in his left hand, right hand and arm raised to eye level, wearing a crested helmet; restored and mounted on a custom-made display stand. 262 grams total, 15 cm including stand



Acquired before 1990. From an old German collection.

Terracotta figurines of horse and rider were common grave offerings in Boeotia, northwest of Attica, particularly during the 6th century B.C. Representations of warriors on horseback were already widespread in the Geometric Period, and also widely employed in Cyprus in this same period. The image of our rider, although influenced by Cypriot designs, does not show typical Cypriot characteristics, and indeed his kausia cap suggests a northern Greek origin.

Broad and squat with flared sidewall and lipp to the inner edge of the mouth. 250 grams, 16.1 cm



Ex 1990s collection and with a central London gallery.