Sassanian Gold Tree Ornament
c.5th century AD. A sheet-gold tree ornament or finial comprising a central stem with two tiers of sheet-gold discs each with radiating foliage, the upper with applied filigree wire branches supporting dangling leaf-shaped pendants; mounted on a custom-made display stand with bevelled edges. Cf. Cambon, P. et al., Afghanistan Crossroads Of The Ancient World, British Museum, London, 2007, pl.122, for a similar style of ornament from Tillya Tepe, Tomb I. 106 grams total, 65 x 65mm including stand (2 1/2 x 2 1/2"). Property of a London gentleman; previously in a private UK collection, 1970s; accompanied by an independent specialist report and valuation, ref. no.177849/13/07/2021. The ornament can be rotated and tilted within a small range on the stand. When exposed to even slight movement, the delicate leaves shake in imitation of wind through the trees.
Condition Report: Fair condition.
View it on
Estimate
Time, Location
Auction House
c.5th century AD. A sheet-gold tree ornament or finial comprising a central stem with two tiers of sheet-gold discs each with radiating foliage, the upper with applied filigree wire branches supporting dangling leaf-shaped pendants; mounted on a custom-made display stand with bevelled edges. Cf. Cambon, P. et al., Afghanistan Crossroads Of The Ancient World, British Museum, London, 2007, pl.122, for a similar style of ornament from Tillya Tepe, Tomb I. 106 grams total, 65 x 65mm including stand (2 1/2 x 2 1/2"). Property of a London gentleman; previously in a private UK collection, 1970s; accompanied by an independent specialist report and valuation, ref. no.177849/13/07/2021. The ornament can be rotated and tilted within a small range on the stand. When exposed to even slight movement, the delicate leaves shake in imitation of wind through the trees.
Condition Report: Fair condition.
Estimate
Time, Location
Auction House
