byzantine bronze polycandelon
This object measures c.9" d. and 10" h., is solid bronze and no breaks or losses
This object was inherited from my father ( a noted NYU art historian) in 1988.
Inherited
Maybe
Hi David,
Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:
A Byzantine bronze polycandelon
Fifth or Six Century AD
Openwork disc with six large outer round rings for inserting glass lamps; the interior with connecting loops. The suspension consists of three chains which terminate in an S-hook at the top (possibly later).
10 inches high, 9 inches diameter
CONDITION: appears to be in good condition
PROVENANCE: inherited
$800-1,200*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.
Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, and thank you again for using Mearto.
Thanks, David. I'll give this the benefit of the doubt of its authenticity; generally, even period (5th/6th Century) examples do not bring very much money at auction unless they are quite a bit larger, and more elaborate, than yours.
I have no documentation other than a Sotheby's appraisal done at his death (1988). Harry Bober (my father) was a noted medieval art historian at NYU's Institute of Fine Arts and lectured on byzantine and migrations era bronzes. he was dear friends with Torkom Demirjian (Ariadne galleries in NYC) and I'm sure they discussed this piece. Not sure what else of relevance to add here.