Gold and copper alloy spiral with lion-head terminal
Gold spiral earring with copper alloy core and a lion-head terminal. One of a pair with 74.51.3367. The lion-head is made in two halves (left and right) from sheet gold.
Spirals with ornate animal-head terminals are frequently found in Cypriot tombs of the Classical period. Terracotta and limestone votive statues illustrate that from the Archaic through the Classical period it was customary for Cypriot men and women to wear such ornaments in large holes pierced through their earlobes.
Spirals with ornate animal-head terminals are frequently found in Cypriot tombs of the Classical period. Terracotta and limestone votive statues illustrate that from the Archaic through the Classical period it was customary for Cypriot men and women to wear such ornaments in large holes pierced through their earlobes.
Artwork Details
- Title: Gold and copper alloy spiral with lion-head terminal
- Period: Classical
- Date: 2nd half of the 5th century BCE
- Culture: Greek, Cypriot
- Medium: Gold, copper alloy
- Dimensions: 3/4 x 13/16in. (1.9 x 2cm)
- Classification: Gold and Silver
- Credit Line: The Cesnola Collection, Purchased by subscription, 1874–76
- Object Number: 74.51.3368
- Curatorial Department: Greek and Roman Art
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