Description:

Ancient Central Asia, Pakistan and Afghanistan, Gandharan Empire, ca. 1st to 2nd century CE. A tantalizing schist palette or cosmetic tray presenting the relief image of a male and female in the midst of an erotic act of passion. Although traditionally identified as a "cosmetic tray," the intricate carving leaves little room for mixing make up; recently, scholars have suggested these trays instead served a ceremonial purpose in rituals. Size: 4" Diameter (10.2 cm)

Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#177862

  • Condition: Some minor nicks, chips, and abrasions, commensurate with age, but otherwise intact and excellent with impressive preservation of detail and light earthen deposits in recessed areas.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

March 30, 2023 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 26.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000