Greek Hellenistic Wine Strainer

4th-2nd century BC. A bronze strainer comprising a shallow bowl with concentric ribbed rim, central strainer and two triangular ledge handles with lateral scrolls and recurved snake-headed finials. For similar examples and a general discussion of type, cf. Reeder, Ellen D., Hellenistic Art in the Walters Art Gallery, Baltimore, 1988, p.125, no.130; A Passion for Antiquities, Ancient Art from the collection of Barbara and Lawrence Fleischman, The J. Paul Getty Museum, Malibu, 1994, pp.77-78, no.31D; and The Search for Alexander, exhibition catalogue, 1980, p.167, no.130. 198 grams, 20cm (8"). Property of an Essex lady; formerly in a 1980s collection. Elaborate strainers, such as this present example, were used at symposia and festive occassions for the purpose of preventing the dregs of wine from entering an individual's wine cup.
Condition Report: Fine condition, one handle repaired.