Scythian Gold Set of Four Mammal Appliqués - 9th to 3rd Century BCE | Feline Motif

Discover the allure of ancient Scythian art with this exquisite set of four gold appliqués, showcasing the skilled metalwork of a nomadic culture renowned for its mastery in gold. These appliqués, each portraying a resting feline, echo the Scythians' deep connection to the natural and spiritual worlds. Dating from the 9th to the 3rd century BCE, these pieces invite you to own a fragment of the enigmatic Scythian legacy.

Unveil a treasure of the ancient world with this remarkable set of four Scythian gold appliqués. Each appliqué is meticulously crafted with the image of a resting mammal, likely a feline, a subject that symbolizes the Scythians' reverence for the wildlife that shared their terrain. The presence of perforations suggests these appliqués were once proudly displayed, possibly adorning the attire of a Scythian noble or embellishing an item of great importance.

The size of each piece, at 30mm in width, and the combined weight of 2.91 grams, reflect the Scythians' expertise in creating intricate artwork on a miniature scale. The quality of craftsmanship, alongside the patina and wear that speak to their ancient provenance, makes these appliqués highly desirable to collectors. Accompanied by a certificate of authenticity from Proto Cultures Art, these appliqués hail from the esteemed private collection of Mr. J. Bahamonde, adding a significant layer of provenance.

In ancient times, such appliqués were not mere ornaments; they served as potent symbols of status and belief, linking their wearers to the divine forces they worshipped. The use of gold, a material chosen for its enduring beauty and association with immortality, was particularly significant for the Scythians, who believed in an afterlife where such treasures would accompany them.

These pieces likely originated from the vast steppes of Eurasia, where the Scythians traversed and traded, acquiring gold from regions that are part of present-day Ukraine or Southern Siberia. The combination of gold with traces of copper and silver, as revealed by the XRF test results, is characteristic of Scythian metallurgy, enhancing the durability and color of the gold.

The rarity of such well-preserved Scythian artifacts, coupled with their distinctive iconography and provenance, positions them in the upper echelons of collectible antiquities. While exact valuations are determined by market demand and the specifics of each piece, similar items of Scythian origin with comparable heritage credentials have been highly sought after in the collector's market.