Lot 69
  • 69

A Bactrian Bronze Cosmetic Vessel, 1st half of the 2nd Millennium B.C.

bidding is closed

Description

  • A Bactrian Bronze Cosmetic Vessel
  • Height without pin 4 7/8 in. 12.4 cm.
in the form of an animal, perhaps the Saiga antelope or an extinct relative, standing with his aquiline head turned to his right, with long tail, layered dewlap, long downward-hanging ears, protruding oval eyes, and short ox-like horns, a pin surmounted by a bird inserted into the vessel's neck.

Provenance

Galerie Nefer Ancient Art, Zurich
European private collection, acquired in the early 1980s

Literature

Galerie Nefer Ancient Art, Zurich, Nefer 1, 1983, illus.
Giancarlo Ligabue and Sandro Salvatori, eds., Bactria: An Ancient Oasis Civilization from the Sands of Afghanistan, Venice, 1988, p. 184, Col. fig. 81

Condition

right foreleg repaired in two places, crack across half of lower left hindleg, pin very corroded and probably repaired , much corrosion on legs
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.