Scythian Gold

4th century BC. A substantial coiled gold 'arm ring' with terminals formed as stylised wolves, each with spiral hips and shoulders, oversized jaws, large pellet eyes; hollow to the underside.Adams, N. Masterpieces of Ancient Eurasian Art, London-Bonn, 2008, catalogue number 11, p.44-45. 378 grams, 92mm (3 1/2"). Property of a London gentleman; formerly with Pierre Bergé & Associés, Archéologie, 29 November 2014, lot 237 [120,000-140,000 euros]; previously in an old American collection, kept in the UK since 1980; accompanied by a seven page scientific report by Dr. habil. Mikhail Treister, titled 'Ancient Toreutics and Jewellery in Eastern Europe' and copies of the relevant pages from Masterpieces of Ancient Eurasian Art where this piece is published; also accompanied by copies of the relevant Pierre Bergé & Associés catalogue pages; this lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by AIAD certificate number no.152140-10021. Dr. Adams explains (op.cit.) that the gold rod was originally extended in a single curve to accommodate the human neck, but at the time of deposition it was converted to a coil possibly to prevent it being re-used - a genre of ritual destruction found in many contexts. A video of this lot can be viewed on Timeline Auctions website.
Condition Report: Very fine condition, straightened to allow it to be worn. Extremely rare.