Late Hellenistic (Greek) / Early Roman, ca. 2nd century BCE to 1st century CE. An exquisite sardonyx vase demonstrating immense artistry, carved in an ovoid form with a pointed base, a gently flaring neck with a beveled rim, and a skillfully hollowed interior. The mesmerizing treasure presents an attractive composition of black, grey, and white bands throughout with the artist taking full advantage of the stone's beauty. Size: 1.625" in diameter x 2" H (4.1 cm x 5.1 cm); 3.5" H (8.9 cm) on included custom stand.
Vessels made from semiprecious stones like sardonyx were prized during Hellenistic and Roman times - coveted as symbols of wealth, status, and sophisticated taste. Quite rare, they were oftentimes imitated in mosaic glass or pottery. A piece like this would have been cherished as an heirloom or presented as a diplomatic gift. They were also placed in royal tombs, and several have found their way into imperial collections.
Provenance: East Coast, USA collection; ex-Christie's, New York "Antiquities" auction (sale 2323, June 10, 2010, lot 129 with an estimate of $12,000 to $18,000); ex-American collection, acquired in the 1970s
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#133240
Condition
Repaired from 3 to 4 pieces - very well done. Internal fissures visible on the neck. Fabulous preservation to overall form. Christie's label affixed to bottom of lucite stand.