Dimension: 25x16mm

Introduction:
Behold a fragment of the ancient world with this Gandhara civilization carnelian bead, shaped in the distinct form of a pyramid, dating from 300 to 500 AD. This bead embodies the sophisticated craftsmanship and rich cultural symbolism of an era renowned for its fusion of Greek and Eastern artistic traditions.

Estimate: $450-$700
Given the current interest in Gandharan artifacts, particularly those carved from carnelian, retail prices for similar items begin at around $500. This reflects the deep historical resonance and collectible nature of such artifacts.

Auction Market Analysis:
The market for Gandharan beads is consistently strong, with collectors and historians alike seeking to own a piece of this cross-cultural legacy. A bead of this shape and material is especially rare, enhancing its appeal and potential value to buyers who appreciate its uniqueness and historical context.

Collector & Resale Insight:
The investment value of Gandharan artifacts has grown considerably, with increases in value of up to 130% over the past decade. This pyramidal bead, with its eye-catching form, is likely to follow this trend, possibly outpacing it due to its distinctive shape.

Provenance:
This piece comes from the esteemed collection of Pakistani consignor Asif Ali, who acquired it from an antique dealer in Peshawar in 2009. Its authenticity is underpinned by a digital soft copy of the Certificate of Authenticity (COA) that will accompany this lot.

Auctioneer's Comment:
We are committed to offering an exceptional auction experience. Post-auction, the lot will be packaged with care and shipped worldwide via DHL from Asia. Please be aware of DHL's minimum charge of $40, which is based on package size and weight. To optimize shipping costs, we recommend consolidating multiple wins. Invoices are promptly issued within 8 hours after the auction's conclusion, excluding insurance fees. To ensure the safety of your valued acquisition during transit, consider adding shipping insurance at checkout, as we are not liable for damages during shipping without it.

Thousand Planet Auction House
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Certificate of Authenticity (COA) Terms
1. Basis: COAs are issued based on consignor information, not independent auctioneer verification.
2. No Warranty: The auctioneer provides no warranties about the COA's accuracy, validity, or completeness.
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