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LOT 1789
Visigothic Bronze Radiate-Headed Brooch
CIRCA 6TH-7TH CENTURY A.D.
2 1/4 in. (9.34 grams, 56 mm).
Comprising a hemispherical head with five projecting globules, a gently arching keeled bow and the footplate with two lateral knops and a triangular terminal; pin-lugs and part of the catchplate on the reverse. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceFrom a European collection, 1990s.
Accompanied by a previous dealer's sales ticket.
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AUCTIONS:
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Merovingian Gold Earrings with Garnets
6th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £2,600
Of circular form, each composed of a plain gold hoop terminating in a cube-shaped setting displayed upon panels of almandine garnet, carefully cut and backed with gold foil to enhance their translucency and depth of colour; the polygonal settings formed of intersecting gold struts. 21.44 grams total, 30-32mm
New York art market. Christie's, New York, 18 December 1998, no.316. with Ariadne Galleries, New York, acquired at the above sale. Private American collection, acquired from the above, 27 April 2016. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.13449-257970.
Collectively, these objects demonstrate the wide diffusion of this Ostrogothic type across the Mediterranean, highlighting both the technical mastery of cloisonné work and its symbolic value within elite Gothic adornment. Their integrity is exceptional for jewels of this period, and they would be suitable, if desired, for sympathetic adaptation with discreet loops for modern wear. The use of garnet inlaid into gold cells reflects the continuation of Late Roman cloisonné techniques, adapted and developed within the Ostrogothic world. Such earrings, with their bold cubic settings and luminous stones, would have projected wealth and status, while also embodying the cultural synthesis of Roman and Gothic traditions in Italy and the wider Mediterranean during the 6th century. Displayed upon a modern bespoke bronze stand, included with the earrings. -
Frankish Silver-Gilt Radiate-Headed Bow Brooch
Circa 6th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £468
Comprising a D-shaped headplate with notched border and reserved lattice ornament; three collared knops to the outer edge; shallow segmented bow; lozengiform footplate with notched border, reserved lattice ornament and collared knop finial; spring, pin and catchplate to the reverse. 23.8 grams, 76 mm
Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman. -
Migration Period Bronze Ring with Figures
Circa 6th-8th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £72
Comprising a flat-section hoop widening at the shoulders, a rectangular bezel with two standing figures, one with his arm raised. 4.25 grams, 22.51 mm overall, 17.37 mm internal diameter (approximate size British O, USA 7, Europe 14.98, Japan 14)
Ex German art market, 2000s. Acquired from an EU collector living in London. From the collection of a Surrey, UK, gentleman.
