Christie’s recent Antiquities sale in New York proved to be a resounding success, far exceeding expectations and showcasing the enduring allure of ancient art and artifacts. Totaling an impressive $5,689,092, the sale achieved a remarkable 178% sold hammer + premium above its low estimate, with 93% of lots finding new homes. This robust performance underscores a vibrant market for historical treasures spanning millennia of human civilization.
The diverse offerings ranged from the grandeur of ancient Rome to the intricate artistry of Egypt and the Near East, covering periods from the third millennium BC to the seventh century AD. Leading the charge was a magnificent pair of Roman porphyry columns, dating to approximately the 2nd century A.D. These imposing columns, once part of the esteemed collection of William Waldorf Astor at Hever Castle, and more recently on long-term loan to The Metropolitan Museum of Art, fetched a remarkable $508,000. Their provenance and powerful presence undoubtedly contributed to their significant price.
Among the other standout pieces was a captivating Roman marble statue of Narcissus, circa early 2nd century A.D. Formerly owned by Alfred Moritz Mond, 1st Baron Melchett, this classical depiction of the mythological figure realized $330,200, highlighting the timeless appeal of Roman sculpture.
The sale also featured an important Assyrian gypsum cuneiform relief fragment, preserving a standard inscription from the reign of Ashurnasirpal II (circa 883–859 BC), which commanded $457,200. This piece offers a tangible link to one of Mesopotamia’s most powerful empires. Adding a touch of Egyptian mystique was a rare feldspar falcon-headed crocodile deity, dating from the Ptolemaic to late Roman periods, with a distinguished history of ownership by early 20th-century connoisseur Martine-Marie-Pol de Béhague.
Further contributing to the sale’s success was an Egyptian limestone Talatat relief fragment from the New Kingdom, 18th Dynasty, reign of Akhenaten (circa 1353-1335 B.C.), which achieved $215,900. These fragmented blocks, often featuring unique stylistic elements from Akhenaten’s revolutionary reign, are highly sought after by collectors.
Christie’s continues to demonstrate its prowess in the antiquities market, bringing together exceptional pieces from various ancient cultures and connecting them with passionate collectors. The strong results of this sale underscore the enduring fascination with our shared human history and the artistic achievements of civilizations long past.
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