A GREEK GOLD AND ENAMEL PLAQUE

CIRCA MID 4TH CENTURY B.C.

Details

A GREEK GOLD AND ENAMEL PLAQUE
circa mid 4th century b.c.
In the center of the square plaque, a die-formed human head with wavy hair in three-quarter view enclosed within a circular border of beaded and plain wire, the outer edge of the plaque with borders of beaded wire, two opposing spiraled wires, and tongues of twisted wire, some with remnants of the original enamel, with two wide, flat loops in back for attachment
1 1/8 in. (2.85 cm.) wide

Lot Essay

Gold plaques or appliqués featuring human heads were popular during the 4th century B.C. Without an attribute, the gender of the figure can not be identified, but Aphrodite or a meanad are possible if female, Dionysos or Apollo if male. For related figures see no. 91 in Williams and Ogden, Greek Gold, Jewellery of the Classical World.