Lot 199
Ancient Central Asia, Kushan Empire, ca. 1st to 4th century CE. monumental and marvelous terracotta jar, crafted with a bulbous body and an attenuated neck culminating in a rolled rim, showcases the vibrant artistry of the Kushan period. Its voluminous body is richly adorned with four ovoid, medallion-like friezes, each masterfully painted with a pair of horses amidst intricate abstract and floral imagery. A distinct band encircling the tapering neck features ten birds, likely peacocks, symbolizing prestige and prosperity. This hand-built vessel, with its striking decorative program, embodies the profound cultural synthesis characteristic of the Kushan Empire. Size: 22.5" Diameter x 20.4" H (57.2 cm x 51.8 cm)
Situated at a vital confluence of trading paths along the Silk Road in ancient northeastern Afghanistan and northwestern Pakistan, this region saw a remarkable blend of influences, including the permeation of Western aesthetic tastes following Alexander the Great's conquests and the subsequent Hellenization of the subcontinent. Flourishing under the Kushan rulers, particularly their greatest king, Kanishka, this era is regarded as one of the most important in the history of Buddhism, as it facilitated the widespread dissemination of its philosophies throughout Central Asia and into China. Such large vessels would have served both practical and ceremonial functions, with the prominent display of horses reflecting their importance in nomadic traditions and warfare, while peacocks were associated with royalty and prosperity.
Provenance: Collection of Y. Kayvan, Los Angeles, California, USA, acquired from a Los Angeles, California, USA gallery acquisition dates range from the late 1990s to 2005
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.
SHIPPING EXCEPTIONS: Due to customs clearance issues, we are unable to ship to Germany, Switzerland and Australia. If you live in Germany, Switzerland or Australia, you will need to provide an alternate shipping destination, or we will not be able to complete your purchase. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.)
PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.
#194943
- Condition: Professionally repaired with restoration and repainting over break lines; all done very well and difficult to notice. Some areas of chipping, nicks, and abrasions, commensurate with age, but otherwise, excellent presentation with great remaining imagery. Earthen deposits to interior.
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 27.5% 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 | $2,500 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $20,000 |