A Large Scythian Gold Torque

Circa 5th Century B.C.

Diameter 11 3/16 inches (28.42 cm); 291 dwt.

Provenance:

Private Collection, Switzerland, prior to 1987.

This Scythian gold torque boasts a commanding presence with a diameter of approximately 12 inches and a total weight of nearly one pound. The torque, characterized by its massive scale, deviates from conventional wearable forms, suggesting its purpose as a votive offering to a deity rather than an accessory. The intricate craftsmanship of the piece is evident in its solid rod construction, circular in section, and slightly tapering towards the terminals. Each terminal, hammered flat and joined at the broad end, is adorned with one prominent triangular-shaped petal flanked by two dotted lines, showcasing meticulous attention to detail. The torque's opulence is underscored by the substantial quantity of gold used, attesting to the high status of its ancient owner.

Height with stand 9 5/8 inches (24.45 cm).

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Jacob Coley

Senior Vice President, Head of Department, Antiquities and Ancient Art

jacobcoley@freemansauction.com 312 280 1212

Mr. Coley joined the Antiquities department in 2021 after working as Managing Director in the Ancient Art department at Colnaghi, the world’s oldest commercial art gallery, where he helped to establish the Ancient Art department and launched Colnaghi New York in 2017. Prior to Colnaghi, Mr. Coley was in the Greek and Roman Art department at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Mr. Coley holds a B.A. from the University of Miami and an M.A. in Art Market from the Fashion Institute of Technology, and he earned an art-appraisal certificate from New York University.

Jewelry Through the Ages: Ancient to Neoclassical

A Large Scythian Gold Torque

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