Description:

Western Asia, Scythian culture, ca. mid 1st millennium BCE. A very fine Scythian 86% gold applique (equivalent to 20K+) depicting an eagle or other type of raptor as if viewed from below as it swoops in to catch a mouse or land on an arm. Incised plumage on the wings, tailfeathers, and neck as well as a sharp beak and elegant eye complete the creature. The Scythians 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. These hoards may represent gifts that were made to foreign rulers, votive offerings, or treasures buried and forgotten. Other gold artifacts from this culture are found in their incredibly rich graves. According to Scythian tradition, warriors (both male and female) were buried alongside their servants and horses, with weapons, harnesses, and personal adornments in order to provide for them in the afterlife. Size: 0.8" H (2 cm); 2.7" H (6.9 cm) on included custom stand; 86% gold (equivalent to 20K+)

Provenance: ex-Davis collection, Houston, Texas, acquired before 2013 from various auction houses in London and New York

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#140298

  • Condition: Excellent form with very light wear commensurate with age. Light deposits on back. Attached to stand with putty.

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April 9, 2020 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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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