Greek Hellenistic Gold Bracelet w/ Granulation

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Fine Antiquities, Asian, Ethno, Fine Art

By Artemis Fine Arts

May 1, 2025

Set Reminder 2025-05-01 10:00:00 2025-05-01 10:00:00 America/New_York Bidsquare Bidsquare : Fine Antiquities, Asian, Ethno, Fine Art https://www.bidsquare.com/auctions/artemis-gallery/fine-antiquities-asian-ethno-fine-art-19334
Showcasing an extraordinary array of artifacts and art, including Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Etruscan, Near Eastern, Asian, Pre-Columbian, Native American, Tribal, Oceanic, Spanish Colonial treasures, fossils, fine and visual arts, and more! All ancient items are ethically sourced and legally available for sale. Enjoy the ease of in-house shipping for a seamless experience! Artemis Fine Arts info@artemisfinearts.com

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• Lot Description
  Ancient Greece, Hellenistic Period, ca. 3rd to 1st century BCE. A testament to Hellenistic artistry, this magnificent bracelet is formed from over 22-karat gold into a broad sheet, its edges defined by a delicate border of nodules. The surface is a canvas for skillfully applied granulation, forming vivid depictions of lions, warriors, trees, and a classic palmette. Such intricate detailing is a hallmark of Hellenistic jewelry, reflecting the sophisticated artistic and cultural landscape of the time. The bracelet's remarkable condition hints at its importance, likely belonging to a wealthy patron or used in ceremonial rites. Size: 7.5" L x 1.4" W (19 cm x 3.6 cm); gold quality: 93% (about 22.3 karats); weight: 41.9 grams
  
  During the Hellenistic era in Greece, gold held considerable import and distinction, serving not only as a medium of exchange but also as a powerful symbol of wealth, status, and even divine favor. The acquisition of this coveted metal, frequently achieved via trade, mining in regions such as Thrace, or as war booty following Alexander the Great's campaigns, fueled the opulent displays characteristic of the Hellenistic courts and elite society. Skilled artisans transformed this precious metal into intricate jewelry, elaborate wreaths, luxurious tableware, and even gilded elements in architecture and sculpture, showcasing the era's artistic sophistication and the affluence of its patrons. Beyond its material worth, gold's inherent beauty and incorruptibility likely imbued it with symbolic connotations, further solidifying its importance in religious dedications and expressions of personal power during the Hellenistic period.
  
  Lions held a significant, multifaceted presence in Hellenistic Greece, extending beyond mere fauna to become potent symbols in art, mythology, and even historical accounts. While the actual presence of lions in Greece declined and eventually disappeared during antiquity, their powerful image persisted. Mythological tales like the Nemean Lion, famously slain by Heracles, cemented the lion as a creature of immense strength and a worthy adversary for heroes. In Hellenistic art, lions frequently appeared as guardians, symbols of royalty and power, and decorative motifs on various objects, including jewelry, reflecting a continued reverence for the animal's majestic qualities even as they became less common in the physical landscape. The enduring presence of lions in Hellenistic culture speaks to their impactful legacy from earlier periods and their adaptability as a visual and symbolic language within the evolving artistic and cultural landscape.
  
  Provenance: ex-T.F. Holy Lands collection, formed since the 1960s; ex-USA collection, 1970s
  
  All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
  
  A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
  
  We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
  
  SHIPPING EXCEPTIONS: Due to customs clearance issues, we are unable to ship to Germany, Switzerland and Australia. If you live in Germany, Switzerland or Australia, you will need to provide an alternate shipping destination, or we will not be able to complete your purchase. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.)
  
  PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.
  
  #193261

  Condition

  Not recommended for wear. End with hooks has been professionally reattached with break line visible. Some light bending to body and minor losses to granulation as well as some small indentations and tiny, stable fissures near periphery. Otherwise, excellent presentation with great preservation of imagery and detail.
• Shipping Info

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