105 - Scythian Bronze Howling Stag Protome Mount Pair. Circa 5th-3rd century B.C. Each an openwork appliqu formed as the head and upper body of a ravening predator with gaping mouth and carefully notched teeth, one forepaw extended, eye with curled browline; above, a 'headdress' of three roundels with spiral detailing connected by lateral arms; thick attachment loop to reverse. Cf. Simpson, S. & Pankova, S., Scythians: Warriors of Ancient Siberia, London, 2017, item 19, for a monstrous beast attacking a horse in a similar pose. 56 grams total, 55-56 mm (2 1/8 in.). [2, No Reserve]

Scythian Bronze Howling Stag Protome Mount Pair. Circa 5th-3rd century B.C. Each an openwork appliqu formed as the head and upper body of a ravening predator with gaping mouth and carefully notched teeth, one forepaw extended, eye with curled browline; above, a 'headdress' of three roundels with spiral detailing connected by lateral arms; thick attachment loop to reverse. Cf. Simpson, S. & Pankova, S., Scythians: Warriors of Ancient Siberia, London, 2017, item 19, for a monstrous beast attacking a horse in a similar pose. 56 grams total, 55-56 mm (2 1/8 in.). [2, No Reserve] Private collection formed in Europe in the 1980s. Westminster collection, central London, UK. The depiction is unusual, since the superstructure above the head resembles an elk's antlers in some respects, but the teeth indicate that it is a carnivore. The Scythian artistic tradition could combine fantastical beasts with realistic representations drawn from nature, all in a single object. TimeLine Auctions follows a rigorous vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists. See our website for more information.