Lot 176B
Ancient Greece, Hellenistic, ca. 3rd to 2nd century BCE. A stunning pair of wearable broad bracelets comprised of tightly twisted wires of 94% gold (equivalent to 22K+). Each hoop-shaped body spirals around in an opulent vortex of gold wire that terminates with a crimped arm on either end that is wrapped with additional gold wire to form a loop and hook clasp. Notice the way that the wires twist around and resemble a vortex similar to the lower half of a whirlpool. The artisan who created these bracelets was perhaps a reputable goldsmith as the sheer volume of gold present could only have been afforded by the wealthiest of families. Size of each (both are relatively similar): 3.7" Diameter (9.4 cm); (wrist openings): 3.3" Diameter (9.4 cm x 8.4 cm); quality of gold: 94% (equivalent to 22K+); weight of bracelets: 51.8 grams and 64.2 grams; total weight: 116 grams.
For an example of an earring created in a similar twisted fashion, please see The Metropolitan Museum of Art, accession number 74.51.3458.
Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection; ex-Madame Frances Artuner collection, Belgium, acquired in the 1960s
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#154287
- Condition: Both bracelets are wearable as shown; however, we always recommend delicate handling with ancient goldworks. One bracelet has repairs to two small areas of body, with minor chips and light adhesive residue along break lines; second bracelet is intact and excellent. Both bracelets have slight bending to overall forms and loosening to some twisted wires commensurate with age and use, and very light encrustations within some interior areas. Great patina throughout.
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