Description:

Near East, late Roman / Byzantine Period, ca. 6th to 8th century CE. A magnificent marble panel featuring the relief of a peacock with an abstract vegetal design above. The ancient Byzantines likely believed that the peacock was an appropriate iconographical symbol not only because of the manner in which its elaborate feathers fell out and grew again each spring, but also as it was believed that the flesh of the peacock did not decay. Thus, the bird became a symbol of renewal, resurrection, and immortality in early Christian and Byzantine culture. Fine images of the peacock depicted on marble panels, mosaics, and other pieces of art were also associated as an extension of heaven on earth; concurrently, many wealthy individuals were thought to have kept peacocks as pets to physically be closer to heaven and therefore live a more pious lifestyle. Size: 27.5" W x 11.5" H (69.8 cm x 29.2 cm)

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

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#174720

  • Condition: Fragment of a larger piece. Expected nicks, chips, and abrasions, commensurate with age. Otherwise, excellent with nice remaining detail and earthen deposits in areas.

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November 10, 2022 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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