Scythian 20K+ Gold Raptor Applique

**First Time At Auction**

Western Asia, Scythian culture, ca. mid 1st millennium BCE. A very fine Scythian 85% gold applique (equivalent to 20K+) depicting a raptor as if viewed from below as it swoops in to catch a mouse or land on an arm. Incised plumage on the wings, tailfeathers, and neck as well as a sharp beak and elegant eye complete the creature. The Scythians are famous for their goldwork, and rightly so; hoards of their treasures have been found throughout eastern and central Europe and western and central Asia. These hoards may represent gifts that were made to foreign rulers, votive offerings, or treasures buried and forgotten. Other gold artifacts from this culture are found in their incredibly rich graves. According to Scythian tradition, warriors (both male and female) were buried alongside their servants and horses, with weapons, harnesses, and personal adornments in order to provide for them in the afterlife. Size: 0.95" W x 2.7" H (2.4 cm x 6.9 cm); 85% gold (equivalent to 20K+)

Provenance: ex-Davis collection, Houston, Texas, acquired before 2013 from various auction houses in London and New York

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#140300
Condition Report: Slight bending with light wear on surface that has somewhat smoothed the details. Light deposits on surface. Attached to stand with putty.