Description:

Rome / Byzantium, ca. 6th century CE. A tripod bronze cast vessel with curved walls, suspended from three chains that terminate in a three-pointed hook. The surface of the vessel is adorned with a dramatic relief scene of the crucifixion, showing Christ on the cross facing the viewer while several other figures, all turned with their bodies oriented towards him, surround him. Beautiful floral motifs are incised around the lightly corseted neck and the flaring foot. The chains connect to three raised arms which extend upward from the narrow rim. As today, censers were an important part of ancient Christianity, and this example, with its fascinating decoration, is a fine reminder of the skill of Byzantine artisans in creating religious items. Size of bowl: 3.45" W x 3.7" H (8.8 cm x 9.4 cm); total height with chain extended: 21.5" H (54.6 cm)

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection; ex-Janet and George Zakos collection, Switzerland, collected in the 1980s

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#142838

  • Condition: Form is beautifully preserved. Some smoothing/wear to the details of the artwork, especially the relief scene. Chain has some slight bends but is completely intact. Great patina and deposits on surface.

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July 1, 2020 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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$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