Byzantine / Medieval Bone Figure w/ Gold Band

**First Time At Auction**

Ancient Near East, Byzantine to early Medieval, ca. 8th to 13th century CE. Hand-carved from bovine or ungulate bone, a robed figure seated on an integral rectangular pedestal. The robe is finely detailed with incised lines to indicate folds of cloth. His face is carved in relief with pointed nose, protruding ears, and wide eyes. The jowly cheeks, furrowed brow, and bald head identifies this man as a priest or monk, sitting serenely in thought. Around the neck is a small wire of gold shaped so the ends almost meet to form a ring that sits freely. The surface of this piece presents with a smooth brown patina that developed over the ages. The carved details are so intricate - impressive considering the petite size of the piece - demonstrating great skill! Size: .375" W x 1.93" H (1 cm x 4.9 cm)

Provenance: private Washington, DC, USA collection; ex- John N. Winnie Jr. Collection, Georgia, USA acquired 1980s to 1990s; ex- private Connecticut, USA collection; ex- private collection New York Rosebery's of London Auction A0369 (10/22/2018) 5 item lot #59

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#159416
Condition Report: Minor nicks to nose and left sleeve. Minor surface wear commensurate with age. Fine details and smooth patina!