Lot 11
Magna Graecia, South Italic Colonies, Campania, ca. 4th century BCE. A striking terracotta antefix boasting the relief of a gorgoneion or head of a gorgon - a frightening, beast-like female creature, usually with serpents for hair like Medusa, who's head was used as a monstrous symbol believed to hold apotropaic powers throughout antiquity. Crowned by decorative volutes that emerge from her pointed tiara, the grotesque female displays a characteristically broad visage comprised of heavy-lidded eyes, a bulbous nose, and full, closed lips, all framed by the spiraling coils of her serpentine coiffure. Scrolling flourishes flank her head, further embellishing the relief. Antefixes usually took the form of heads, either of humans or mythological creatures like this example. In addition to serving a decorative purpose, these architectural sculptures also covered and protected any exposed wooden sections of the building from the elements. Size: 6.5" W x 5.7" H (16.5 cm x 14.5 cm); 7.8" H (19.8 cm) on included custom stand.
This piece has been tested using thermoluminescence (TL) analysis and has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. A full printed and bound report is available to the buyer upon request.
Provenance: ex-Abe Rothstein collection, ca. 1965 to 1980
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.
PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance),
we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm.
Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.
#173687
- Condition: Fragment of a larger piece. A few areas of chipping to peripheries and expected nicks and abrasions throughout, all commensurate with age. Otherwise, excellent with an impressive presentation and nice remaining details.
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| 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 |