A Byzantine Mosaic Panel, Syria, 5th/6th Century A.D.

depicting in multicolored tesserae the winged bust of a woman bearing fruit, crowned with fruit, and wearing earrings, a line of Greek inscription above translating "Autumn."

acquired in 1969 by the present owner from Asfar Bros., Hotel St. George, Beirut

Tesserae set in heavy modern concrete slab, areas of staining and several superficial cracks filled with mold, some of the tesserae along inner border may have been replaced, right side of inscription and surrounding areas may be partially restored, colors in catalogue are much more vivid than in reality
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.

For personifications of seasons on church mosaic floors see P. Donceel-Voûte, Les pavements des églises byzantines de Syrie et du Liban: décor, archéologie et liturgie, Louvain-la-Neuve, 1988, p. 63, fig. 35 (Deir es-Sleib, Basilica A).