Ancient Greek Gold Necklace w/ Stoetzer Report

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Fine Antiquities, Ethnographic & Fine Art

By Artemis Gallery

Dec 3, 2020

Set Reminder 2020-12-03 10:00:00 2020-12-03 10:00:00 America/New_York Bidsquare Bidsquare : Fine Antiquities, Ethnographic & Fine Art https://www.bidsquare.com/auctions/artemis-gallery/fine-antiquities-ethnographic-fine-art-6119
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• Lot Description
  Ancient Greece or Central Asia, ca. 2nd century BCE to 2nd century CE. A breathtaking 82.6 to 85.1% gold (equivalent to ~20K) necklace comprised of a finely woven gold chain from which 7 winged figural pendants (perhaps representing Nike given that one holds a flaming torch) of nearly identical form (save hand gestures and attributes - see extended description below) and 6 elongated, fluted, piriform pendants (perhaps representing seeds or urns) with floral pendants above are suspended from a loop in lop construction chain that is further adorned by 7 equidistantly placed rosette appliques. Beyond impressive for the repousse work, chasing, and stamping of the pendants and appliques as well as the exquisite chain, this piece is truly a work of art! Precious metal: 82.6-85.1% gold (equivalent to ~ 20K) and 14-15.7% silver. Size: chain measures 12.625" L x .375" W (32.1 cm x 1 cm); largest pendants (winged + floral above) measure 2.125" L x .875" W (5.4 cm x 2.2 cm); weight: 62.7 grams
  
  As mentioned above, the winged figural pendants are nearly identical. All are cloaked in lavish drapery folds, present lovely visages with delicate features and combed back coiffures as well as grand wings delineated via repousse. However, they differentiate themselves with distinct hand gestures and attributes. From left to right the respective figures display: right hand to chest; left hand holding a scepter; right hand holding a small offering; both hands holding a bowl or shell; left hand holding an offering; both hands holding what appears to be a flaming torch representing victory (consistent with Nike attributes) across the chest; and finally, both hands pressed together as if expressing gratitude or prayer. Certainly a mesmerizing ensemble of figural pendants sure to delight many an admirer!
  
  Accompanied by Stoetzer examination report #112712.1 (signed and dated November 26, 2012) that confirms the authenticity of this piece.
  
  Provenance: private New York, New York USA collection, acquired by late father in the 1960s and 1970s (some earlier) and were in his estate as part of his collection
  
  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.
  
  #160564

  Condition

  As stated in Stoetzer report, "signs of mild abrasions and surface disruptions that are generally associated with long term burial and weathering conditions with signs of some level of mild cleaning which has been performed." Surface wear with scuffs, indentations, and minute fractures in the gold as noted by the Stoetzer Report, which also states, "contribute to our conclusion that the object is natural and not contrived." Leftmost winged figure is missing left arm. Missing hook or clasp; however, a reputable jeweler may be able to remedy this with a complementary clasp.
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