922 - Two ornate South Italian pectorals for the horses of a two-horse chariot, plus a simple breastplate, 5th–4th century B.C.

Two ornate South Italian pectorals for the horses of a two-horse chariot, plus a simple breastplate, 5th–4th century B.C. Two identically designed, evidently matching pectorals made of bronze sheet with embossed ornamentation for a horse team, constructed as follows: at the front, a “bib” rounded at the bottom, divided in its lower section by four embossed, vertically running, elongated ridges. The outer ones are wider, the two middle ones narrower. Above this are two garland-like ridges curved downward. At the ends of the upper ridge are two palmettes that transition into the long, narrow “straps” of the “bib.” Above the palmettes, along the edges of the “straps” and the lower edge of the “bib,” there is a kymation consisting of a series of tongue-shaped segments. The entire edge is perforated with small holes spaced approximately 3–5 mm apart, which served to attach a backing made of organic material. Additionally, there are two larger holes on the lower edge of each pectoral. On one of the “straps,” the rounded end is preserved; on the others, it is broken off. The surface shows areas of green oxidation over a reddish-brown copper patina. The underside has been stabilized with gauze and synthetic resin. Three of the “straps” are broken and held together only by the gauze impregnated with synthetic resin. The surface of the pectorals is slightly dented. Two impressive examples of ancient Italic ceremonial harness. Width of each approx. 40 cm. Preserved lengths: 68 cm and 55 cm. Also included is a crescent-shaped fragment from the center of another pectoral made of undecorated bronze sheet, whose “straps” are broken off. It also features fine perforations along the edges. Width approx. 50 cm. Height 23 cm. CULTURAL HERITAGE! Provenance: From the Axel Guttmann Collection; acquired in 1993 from an art dealer in the Rhineland Condition: III