Early Greek Bronze Lidded Pyxis w/ Birds

**Originally Listed At $800**

Ancient Greece, Geometric period, ca. 8th century BCE. A lidded pyxis with a flattened, globular body decorated with incised striations at the shoulder and a pair of abstract bird protomes at the rim, and an openwork, symmetrical ornament at the lower end. The lid also has bird protomes that fit neatly against those at the rim and a single vertical post/handle. This form of pyxis is called a "sickle" type, since its shape resembles that of a sickle, most likely used to hold perfumed oils or precious objects. Perforations just before the protomes of the lid and container were used to fasten the piece together in order to safeguard the contents and allow the pyxis to be suspended as a pendant via the protruding central element with its double perforations. Size: 3.45" W x 4.2" H (8.8 cm x 10.7 cm); 5.05" H (12.8 cm) on included custom stand.

Such pyxides have been found in necropolises. Based upon their positioning in the grave, experts believe that these pieces were suspended from the belts of the deceased. While two pyxides of a similar form were found at Samos, the type is believed to have originated in Macedonia.

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection; ex-Gorny & Mosch (auction 140, June 21, 2005, lot 300); ex-private German collection, acquired in the 1990s

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#137291
Condition Report: Small losses to peripheries of lid; otherwise in very nice condition with a pretty mottled deep green patina.