181
A Palmyrene Limestone Relief
24 x 27 inches. 24 x 34 inches.
Estimate: $50,000-$70,000
Passed
Live Auction
Antiquities & Ancient Art
Size
24 x 27 inches. 24 x 34 inches.
Description
A Palmyrene Limestone Relief
Circa 3rd Century A.D.
24 x 27 inches. 24 x 34 inches.
Property from a Midwest Private Collection
Condition
Two separate panels intact as preserved on a single moveable metal mount. Left panel with horizontal crack meandering across horse's legs, palm tree, and at left boarder. Larger loses to horse's front legs with minor loses and chips overall. Subtle infilling on cracks typical of ancient limestone reliefs only evident under UV light. Fine, stable and attractive condition overall.
Provenance
Provenance:
Royal Athena Galleries, New York, 2002.
Note:
Unlike the more common funerary relief busts that are forward facing, this relief (now in two parts) is in profile and depicts two merchants, one with saddled horse and the other with loaded camel, engaging in trade. The caravan city of Palmyra was a popular destination for traders along the Silk Road. Goods from both the East and West were frequently exchanged which in turn brought prosperity and wealth to the region. It is probable the deceased for which this relief was commissioned was a wealthy merchant.