Eastern Mediterranean, Greece, Hellenistic period, ca. 3rd to 2nd century BCE. A stunning electrum diadem with an extraordinary repousse decoration across the obverse face. The rectangular sheet was hammered and cut, the chased patterns consisting of scrolling vine tendrils and animals- rabbit, dog, and birds. A woman's bust in a medallion within a beaded border graces the terminal end on the right side, and a winged creature on the opposite end- perhaps a hippocamp. Size along curve: 11.75" L x 1.6" W (29.8 cm x 4.1 cm); 5" H (12.7 cm) on included custom stand; electrum quality: 61.2% to 69.7% gold; 27% to 37% silver; weight: 44.8 grams

The diadem is one of the oldest and most characteristic articles of women's jewelry that originated in the Greek world. While wreaths and coronets were worn by men as signs of social or political status, and as funerary objects, diadem were worn solely by women, usually strictly for decorative purposes. Numerous examples in gold have been found in necropolises in southern Italy, Macedonia, and on the Black Sea coast, testifying to the great refinement of Greek jewelry-making during the Hellenistic period, and to the widespread diffusion of decorative motifs throughout the Mediterranean basin.

For a similar example please see The British Museum's website, museum number: 1877,0910.60.

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-Gerhard Hirsch Nachfolger, Munich, Germany, Auction 367, lot 1516, September 22, 2021; ex-private German collection

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#171637

Indentations and slight bending. Tiny tears to peripheries and 5 hairline perforations to the repousse. Patina and dark toning. Some softening to details, but motifs are discernable. Overall excellent condition.