PAIR OF CYPRIOT TERRACOTTA HORSE-AND-RIDER FIGURES

Ca. 600 - 500 BC. Two horsemen are shown mounted on hand-modelled terracotta horses, both conceived frontally with widely spread legs forming stable supports. Each animal has a long projecting muzzle, applied circular eyes and simplified ears, while the rider rises directly from the horse’s back in a compact, schematic composition. The rider on the left wears a high pointed or folded cap; his companion has a more elaborate face with an applied beard and prominent headdress. The left figure retains a pale buff surface, whereas the right preserves a reddish fabric with dark brown to black painted areas extending over both horse and rider. Their handmade construction, emphatic headgear and applied facial details closely accord with Cypro-Archaic equestrian votive figurines. For similar see: The British Museum, Museum number 1982,0726.92. Size: 130-135mm x 75-85mm; Weight: 290g Provenance: Private London collection, acquired on the German art market; Ex. Old Bavarian collection. Accompanied by a German Export license. This item has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database and comes with a confirmation letter.

Estimate:£500

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