Ancient Greek

Ancient Greek Lead Tessera Depicting Athena – Apparently Unpublished Type Hellenistic Period, circa 3rd–1st century BC Material: Lead Weight: 1.3 g Dimensions: 13.8 × 13.8 mm Thickness: 1.2 mm A very rare Ancient Greek lead tessera depicting Athena, one of the most celebrated and powerful goddesses of the ancient Greek world. This fascinating miniature artefact combines exceptional mythological significance with the distinctive character of an ancient lead token. The tessera features a representation of Athena, the revered goddess of wisdom, strategic warfare, courage and divine protection. Its compact circular form, ancient surface and surviving figural design give this remarkable object a particularly evocative appearance. Athena – Divine Protector of Ancient Greece: Athena occupied an extraordinary position in Greek religion and society. As the patron goddess of Athens, she symbolised wisdom, military strategy, craftsmanship and the protection of civilisation. Her image was closely associated with divine authority, civic identity and the safeguarding of communities. Throughout the Greek world, representations of Athena appeared on coins, seals, votive offerings and objects connected with religious and civic life. The presence of Athena on this lead tessera gives the object a fascinating connection to the spiritual and cultural traditions of the ancient Greek world. A Remarkable and Possibly Unique Ancient Token: Ancient Greek lead tesserae represent an especially intriguing category of archaeological material. These small objects were used in various aspects of civic, religious and social life, including systems of identification, distribution and participation. The present example is distinguished by its miniature dimensions, characteristic ancient patina and individual appearance. Of particular interest is its distinctive outline, including a small V-shaped indentation along the edge. Together with the surviving Athena representation, these characteristics make the tessera an appealing object for specialised collectors. Exceptional Rarity and Collectible Significance: It seems that this example belongs to an exceptionally small surviving group, or may even prove to be a unique recorded specimen. Beyond its potential rarity, the tessera offers a captivating connection to the mythology, religious beliefs and everyday institutions of Ancient Greece. An outstanding addition to a specialised collection of Ancient Greek tesserae, mythological artefacts and classical antiquities. A very rare and historically fascinating piece, potentially representing an unpublished and possibly unique variety of an Ancient Greek Athena tessera. I prove that the lot was obtained legally , provenance statement seen by Catawiki Important information. I guarantee that I am entitled to ship this lot. I will take care that any necessary permits will be arranged. I will inform the buyer about this if this takes more than a few days.

Estimate:£230.33

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