An Etruscan Bone Mirror Handle

Circa 6th Century B.C.

Height 8 3/32 inches (20.6 cm).

O'Gara and Wilson, Ltd., Antiquarian Booksellers, Chesterton, Indiana

Provenance:

Private Collection of an Archaeologist, Italy, prior to 1949.

Father Angelico Rinaldo Zarlenga (1919-1985), Italy and United States; thence by descent to his brother.

Fra Angelico Art Foundation, Riverside, Illinois; where acquired by the current owner, 14 August 2008.

Note:

This rare and finely carved bone handle depicts a mythical scene from the ninth labor of Hercules in which Hercules draws his sword to kill Hippolyta, the queen of the Amazons, and take her belt. Themes from Greek mythology were immensely popular and often the motif of choice for Etruscan toiletries. Originally a bronze mirror engraved with similar subject matter would have connected to this handle.

Used primarily by women, these mirrors were designed to include relevant visual metaphors and allegories. As is the case with the handle seen here, the dark subject matter of death is made light with sexual overtones. Hercules is depicted in the nude with a warrior's physique holding an erect sword close to his hip, while Hippolyta is shown in full panoply with shield held high and in a defensive position. Together, these two figures fill the entire tableau, their bodies overlapping multiple times around the handle. Hercules' right arm can be seen tucked behind Hippolyta's shield, and left leg pressing against her inner thigh. They are facing each other, heads in profile, both with expressive smiles. Thus, it comes as no surprise that the spirit of this decoration was intended for the boudoir.

Although the subject matter on this handle depicts a purely Greek scene, it is heavily Etruscanized. The geometric stylization, difference in scale, distinct drill work, archaistic features, and slight variations to mythological iconography, places this object in Etruria, Italy during the 6th Century B.C. when Etruscan culture was flourishing most.

For a bone handle with similar scene, see The British Museum of Art (Inv. no. 1884,0614.30).

Intact. Minor horizontal cracks from dry climate in antiquity but not affecting the stability of the handle; other minor cracking, chips, and encrustations throughout. Moderate losses and flaking to the bone at the ends, other scattered instances. The bone has signs of flecking and a porous surface (especially in the center), no signs of Schreger lines. Some discoloring or yellowing to the bone. The elements of the carved scene are well preserved. Height with stand 8 13/16 inches (22.4 cm). Accompanied with box and velvet sleeve.

The physical condition of lots in our auctions can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration/repair. All lots are sold "AS IS," in the condition they are in at the time of the auction, and we and the seller make no representation or warranty and assume no liability of any kind as to a lot's condition. Any reference to condition in a catalogue description or a condition report shall not amount to a full accounting of condition. Condition reports prepared by Freeman's staff are provided as a convenience and may be requested from the Department prior to bidding.

The absence of a posted condition report on the Freeman's website or in our catalogues should not be interpreted as commentary on an item's condition. Prospective buyers are responsible for inspecting a lot or sending their agent or conservator to inspect the lot on their behalf, and for ensuring that they have requested, received and understood any condition report provided by Freeman's.

Please email for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.

Antiquities and Ancient Art: A Study

An Etruscan Bone Mirror Handle

Lot Description

Condition Report

Preview

Auction Contact

Shipping | Pickup