PHRYGIA, Sebaste. Caracalla. AD 198-217. Æ (34mm, 21.25 g, 6h). Lucilius Antonius, archon. Fine.

CNG Feature Auction 127
Lot: 358.
Closing Date: Sep 18 2024 11:00 ET

Roman Provincial, Bronze

Estimate: $ 500

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PHRYGIA, Sebaste. Caracalla. AD 198-217. Æ (34mm, 21.25 g, 6h). Lucilius Antonius, archon. Laureate, draped and cuirassed bust right, seen from behind / Perseus standing right, head left, cutting of the head of Medusa with harpa, who kneels before; to left stands Athena holding spear and shield. BMC 34; SNG Copenhagen –; SNG von Aulock –. Brown patina, light porosity. Fine. Extremely rare.

Ex Classical Numismatic Group 43 (24 September 1997), lot 993.

Scenes from the hero-cycle of Perseus are found on numerous Greek and Provincial bronzes, but none as dramatic as this. The half-nude hero is shown subduing the horrid Medusa, his cloak streaming out behind him as he draws his blade across the monster's throat. His patron Athena stands at his side, and to assist his conquest, positions her shield in such a manner that Perseus can see Medusa’s reflection to slay her without looking directly upon her and thereby turning to stone.

The final winners of all CNG Feature Auction 127 lots will be determined during the live online sale that will be held on 17-18 September 2024. This lot is in Session Two, which will begin 17 September at 2 PM ET.

Winning bids are subject to a 22.5% buyer's fee for bids placed on this website and 25% for all others.

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