Western Asia, Scythian culture, Classical Period, ca. 2nd century BCE. These gold scabbard appliques are comprised of twin independent elements, thick sheet gold hammered, folded, and stamped with piping and animal motifs on their edgings. They came from an important Maeotic-Scythian hoard, purportedly found near the Black Sea. The Scythians, a loose confederation of nomadic horse lords, are famous for their goldwork, and rightly so; hoards of their treasures have been found throughout eastern and central Europe and western and central Asia. Unfortunately, what little we know of them aside from their burials, comes from the often fabulous accounts of Classical authors like Herodotus and Strabo. These hoards may represent gifts that were made to foreign rulers, votive offerings, or treasures buried and forgotten. Size of largest: 1.25" W x 1.5" H (3.2 cm x 3.8 cm)

Provenance: Ex-Taisei Gallery Collection Auction. Nov. 1992, NYC Lot #167, Part Lot.

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