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

depicting in multicolored tesserae a large krater flanked by two addorsed ducks with heads turned back, the vessel with gadrooned body and voluted handles, and a flower flanked by two confronted birds each with a flower behind, a tabula ansata above the scene containing five lines of Greek dedicatory inscription translating "Eupsychios, son of Theodosios, lawyer, in thanksgiving for the Holy Place adorned it with mosaics, in the year 700-60 (?), on the 24th day of the month Gorpiaios."

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

Tesserae set in heavy modern concrete slab, pink and red tesserae more worn than others, a few isolated tesserae missing, note scattered minor losses in right side of inscription, excess grout covers parts of tesserae in most areas, colors are less vivid in person than in the catalogue illustrations.
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.