LOT #40004 |
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Pair of Greek Bronze Ankle Guards [Ankle Greaves].. ... (Total: 2 )
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Sold on Jun 9, 2025 for:
$6,250.00
Bid Source: Live: Phone bidder
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Description
Pair of Greek Bronze Ankle Guards [Ankle Greaves].5th Century B.C. Height: 9 1/2-inches (24 cm), A matching pair of ancient Greek bronze ankle guards, dating to the 5th century B.C., an era marked by the rise of the classical Greek city-states and the refinement of hoplite warfare. These elements formed a typical component of a Greek warrior's panoply, specifically designed to protect the lower leg and heel during battle.
Each guard is formed with a slender, convex profile and shaped with subtle repousse detailing to mimic the natural musculature of the human leg, a blend of function and artistic expression that characterizes classical Greek armor. Perforations at the tapered edges would have allowed for secure attachment via leather ties, ensuring both mobility and defense on the battlefield. The greaves are accompanied by photocopies of the original invoice and auction documentation, tracing their last recorded sale to 2007 at Arte Primitivo, Howard S. Rose Gallery, New York City. According to Arte Primitivo, comparable examples can be found in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art (see Inv. 1975.11.1-.2 and 1982.11.5-.6).
The pair is elegantly displayed on a custom black-painted metal base, with anatomical alignment that highlights their symmetry and sculptural form.
Provenance:
Ex. Royal Athena Gallery, 2003.
Private Collection.
Condition: Appears in fine condition for its age. The surfaces exhibit a well-developed reddish-brown and green patina, consistent with ancient bronze, and scattered mineral encrustation, all indicative of long-term burial and preservation. Minor separations/loss to edges, primarily focusing on left example. A stable and visually impressive example of Classical period martial equipment.
Auction Info
2025 June 9 Arms & Armor, Civil War & Militaria Signature® Auction #6320 (go to Auction Home page)
Auction Dates
June, 2025
9th
Monday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 8
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
Page Views: 467
Buyer's Premium per Lot:
25% on the first $1,000,000 (minimum $49), plus 20% of any amount between $1,000,000 and $5,000,000, plus 15% of any amount over $5,000,000 per lot.
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