Greek / Early Roman Sardonyx Vessel, ex-Christie's

Late Hellenistic (Greek) / Early Roman, ca. 2nd century BCE to 1st century CE. An exquisite sardonyx vase demonstrating immense artistry, carved in an ovoid form with a pointed base, a gently flaring neck with a bevelled rim, and a skillfully hollowed interior. The mesmerizing treasure presents an attractive composition of black, grey, and white bands throughout, the artist taking full advantage of the stone's beauty. Size: 1.625" in diameter x 2" H (4.1 cm x 5.1 cm); 3.5" H (8.9 cm) on included custom stand.

Vessels made from semiprecious stones like sardonyx were prized during Hellenistic and Roman times - coveted as symbols of wealth, status, and sophisticated taste. Quite rare, they were oftentimes imitated in mosaic glass or pottery. A piece like this would have been cherished as an heirloom or presented as a diplomatic gift. They were also placed in royal tombs, and several have found their way into imperial collections.

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection; listed in Christie's Sale 2323, June 10, 2010, Lot 129 with an estimate of $12,000 to $18,000

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#133240
Condition Report: Repaired from 3 to 4 pieces - very well done. Internal fissures visible on the neck. Christie's label affixed to bottom of lucite stand.