Lot 4B
Egypt, Roman period, ca. 1st century BCE to 1st century CE. One of the most important examples of ancient gold we have had the pleasure of offering. Heavy gold foil formed into the likeness of a playful monkey. Incredibly detailed with male anatomy, hairy body, hands to its mouth, long tail ending with fluff-ball at the tip, and wearing braided cap. Size: 1.5" W x 2.625" H (3.8 cm x 6.7 cm).
This incredible example, and its crocodile cousin from the same collection (item #112860) were first discussed in a 1959 letter to addressed to Mr. Arif Atiyeh of Portland, Oregon from noted anthropologist Robert Fernea. The crocodile has since been analyzed by Pieter Meyers, Senior Research Scientist Emeritus, Los Angeles County Museum of Art (written report provided with piece) who has concluded the following: "The trace element composition shows the absence of elevated levels of modern metals such as cadmium, nickel and zinc which is consistent with ancient gold. Modern gold often contains higher concentrations of one or more of these modern metals. The technical characteristics of the Figure of a Crocodile, specifically the good craftsmanship, the apparent use of solderless joining and the alloy and trace element compositions are consistent with a date of manufacture in antiquity." Test has not been done for the monkey, but we will be happy to submit the monkey for the same analysis at cost to the buyer. Should results be different than the crocodile and the piece not determined to be ancient, we will refund both the price of the monkey, as well as the cost of the test.
Provenance: Ex-private A. Atiyeh collection, before 1960; former estate of Oregon Governor Victor Atiyeh; evaluated by noted anthropologist Robert Fernea in 1959.
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#112861
- Condition: Minor crushing on right arm else intact and near choice.
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| From: | To: | Increments: |
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| $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 |