Lot 99A
Near East/Holy Land, Early Byzantine period, ca. 4th to 6th century CE. A cast bronze lamp with a bronze chain for hanging it attached to the spout and the top of the griffin head. The lamp itself has a beautiful handle composed of a tendril-like neck that curls upward to the dramatic, bird-like head of a griffin over the body of the vessel. The griffin holds a small bronze ball between the upper and lower part of its curved beak. The hinged lid fits perfectly within the body of the lamp, which is simple and elongated, with a large-mouthed spout. Size without chain: 6.2" W x 4.05" H (15.7 cm x 10.3 cm)
Some scholars have noted that bronze lamps, with their increased cost over pottery lamps, were a type of heirloom, and were most likely reserved for the richest households. Bronze lamps, which have been theorized to remain in a family for at least three generations because of their expense before being recast could also have additions added to them - like crosses or new lids - to suit changing styles. This particular type of lamp proved popular and several production centers for the style arose; ultimately they were distributed widely throughout the Eastern Roman Empire, reaching Asia Minor, Morocco, and even Central Europe.
Provenance: private Florida, USA collection, purchased at Christie's, New York, May 5, 2002, Lot 186; ex-private Scandinavian 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.
#140359
- Condition: Beautiful condition. The chain has some small separations in it and slight bending to form. Rich, dark green patina on surface.
Accepted Forms of Payment:
American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa
Shipping
Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense
Artemis Fine Arts
You agree to pay a buyer's premium of up to 24.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.
View full terms and conditions
| 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 | $2,000 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $25,000 |