Details
34 in. (2 cm.) long
Provenance
Giorgio Sangiorgi (1886-1965), Rome, acquired and brought to Switzerland, late 1930s; thence by continuous descent to the current owner.
Brought to you by

Lot Essay

Engraved in the talismanic style is a palm frond in a two-handled vase, with cross-hatching filling the zones between the handles. Sir Arthur Evans called the gems talismanic because of the stylization of their devices as compared to the realism found on other gems of the Middle and Late Minoan periods (see p. 42 in Boardman, Greek Gems and Finger Rings). For related talismanic seals see nos. 227-235 in O. Krzyszkowska, Aegean Seals, An Introduction.

Related Articles

Sorry, we are unable to display this content. Please check your connection.

More from
Masterpieces in Miniature: Ancient Engraved Gems formerly in the G. Sangiorgi Collection Part III
Place your bid Condition report

A Christie's specialist may contact you to discuss this lot or to notify you if the condition changes prior to the sale.

I confirm that I have read this Important Notice regarding Condition Reports and agree to its terms. View Condition Report