Western Asia, Scythian culture, ca. mid 1st millennium BCE. A very fine Scythian 91% gold applique (equivalent to just under 22K) depicting an avian form in profile with remarkable details - delineated plumage on the wings, tailfeathers, and neck - a curved beak and elegant eye. This bird appears to be perched, as if landing atop the arm of a falconer. 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. Scholars have posited that these hoards may represent gifts for 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. Gold quality: 91% gold, equivalent to 20 to 22K. Size: 1" W x 1.125" H (2.5 cm x 2.9 cm); 3.125" H (7.9 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: ex Estate of Eldert Bontekoe, Pegasi Numismatics, Ann Arbor, Michigan USA acquired before 2000

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#158894

Minute nicks to tips of a few wings - very difficult to discern. Otherwise intact and superb. Attached to stand with putty, so difficult to remove to weigh.