Byzantine, circa 13th/14th century

Art Market, New York, 16 November, 1996

Considering the age of the dish, overall the condition of the bronze is good, with some wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. There is some greening and oxidation to the bronze. It is probable that a lacquer has been applied to the surface. There are a few minor areas of light scratches where the bronze colour is revealed, notably around the frame of the motif at the top. There are two areas of probable restoration around the eagle's proper right leg, which are particularly visible at the back. At the reverse in areas, the patina has flaked away to reveal a white material. There is some minor warping in areas.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The motif of the double-headed eagle featured prominently in late Byzantine iconography, particularly after its adoption by the Palaiologan dynasty. Surviving objects that depict the motif originate largely from Eastern Europe and Anatolia; compare a 14th-century medallion in the National Museum, Belgrade (Evans 2004, op. cit. p. 126 no. 61B), and an early 13th-century stone carving from Konya (ibid., p. 397, no. 243). Double-headed eagles also appear in the 12th-century mosaic decoration of the Stanza di Re Ruggero in the Palazzo Reale, Palermo (Cilento, op. cit.).

RELATED LITERATURE
H.C. Evans and W.D. Wixom (eds.), The Glory of Byzantium: Art and Culture of the Middle Byzantine Era A.D. 843-1261, exh. cat. Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, 1997, pp. 326-327, no. 220B; H. C. Evans (ed.), Byzantium: Faith and Power (1261-1557), exh. cat. Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, 2004; A. Cilento, Byzantinisches Sizilien und Süditalien, Petersberg, 2006, p. 176