Scythian 21K+ Gold Vulture Applique

**First Time At Auction**

Western Asia, Scythian culture, ca. mid 1st millennium BCE. A very fine Scythian 89% gold applique (21K+) depicting a zoomorphic form - a vulture-like bird - presented with its wings stretched outward, feathers detailed on its wings and lower body. It has a distinctive neck ruff that gives us a clue to its species. 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 to provide for them in the afterlife. Size: 1.2" H (3 cm); 2.4" H (6.1 cm) on included custom stand; 89% gold (21K+)

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

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#140299
Condition Report: Tiny bend to one lower side and small tear near the head; otherwise in fantastic condition with light deposits on the back side. The item is attached to its stand using putty.