Byzantine Terracotta Relief Plaque with Pegasus - 22 cm
Starting bid
€ 1
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Selected by Peter Reynaers
Has nearly 30 years’ experience and moderated multiple online art research groups.
Estimate € 1,100 - € 1,400
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Description from the seller
Rare Byzantine terracotta relief plaque depicting the mythical Pegasus within a circular medallion. The winged horse is shown in a walking stance and enclosed within a rectangular frame featuring stylized ornamental corner motifs. The composition, low-relief modelling, and stylized treatment are characteristic of the artistic language of Byzantine architectural sculpture from the 6th century AD.
Relief plaques of this type were used as architectural decorative elements in churches, monasteries, and prestigious secular buildings. They formed part of chancel screens, wall revetments, friezes, or other decorative architectural features, reflecting the symbolic and decorative traditions of Early Byzantine art.
The front displays an attractive naturally aged surface with a fine archaeological patina. The reverse is unworked and shows a small suspension hole together with ancient manufacturing and usage marks.
Condition: Professionally restored. Good condition consistent with its age. Several old edge losses and chips, particularly along the corners and borders. Old fracture lines and minor surface losses are present. The central relief is well preserved, and the depiction of Pegasus remains crisp and clearly recognizable.
Provenance: Formerly in the Madeleine & Erich Dammann Collection, Germany. Acquired during the owners' extensive travels between 1950 and 1970. Documented in Germany by 1970 and subsequently retained in continuous family ownership.
#Orientalism
Seller's Story
I am pleased to be able to offer my pieces here on Catawiki.
Transparency: In my offers, you will find all documents and information available to me. Furthermore, there are no additional documents.
Authenticity certificates: If no authenticity certificate is available, I do not promise one. All the documentation I have is attached to the auction.
Provenance: Many pieces come from the estate of a passionate collector who gathered items over 50 years, traveled the world, and also accompanied archaeological expeditions. She has been deceased for about 20 years, which is why no additional documents are available.
Fairness: I list my items honestly and without a minimum price – no one is forced to spend more than they wish.
My goal is fair and open trade, where buyers know exactly what to expect.
Translated by Google TranslateRare Byzantine terracotta relief plaque depicting the mythical Pegasus within a circular medallion. The winged horse is shown in a walking stance and enclosed within a rectangular frame featuring stylized ornamental corner motifs. The composition, low-relief modelling, and stylized treatment are characteristic of the artistic language of Byzantine architectural sculpture from the 6th century AD.
Relief plaques of this type were used as architectural decorative elements in churches, monasteries, and prestigious secular buildings. They formed part of chancel screens, wall revetments, friezes, or other decorative architectural features, reflecting the symbolic and decorative traditions of Early Byzantine art.
The front displays an attractive naturally aged surface with a fine archaeological patina. The reverse is unworked and shows a small suspension hole together with ancient manufacturing and usage marks.
Condition: Professionally restored. Good condition consistent with its age. Several old edge losses and chips, particularly along the corners and borders. Old fracture lines and minor surface losses are present. The central relief is well preserved, and the depiction of Pegasus remains crisp and clearly recognizable.
Provenance: Formerly in the Madeleine & Erich Dammann Collection, Germany. Acquired during the owners' extensive travels between 1950 and 1970. Documented in Germany by 1970 and subsequently retained in continuous family ownership.
#Orientalism
Seller's Story
I am pleased to be able to offer my pieces here on Catawiki.
Transparency: In my offers, you will find all documents and information available to me. Furthermore, there are no additional documents.
Authenticity certificates: If no authenticity certificate is available, I do not promise one. All the documentation I have is attached to the auction.
Provenance: Many pieces come from the estate of a passionate collector who gathered items over 50 years, traveled the world, and also accompanied archaeological expeditions. She has been deceased for about 20 years, which is why no additional documents are available.
Fairness: I list my items honestly and without a minimum price – no one is forced to spend more than they wish.
My goal is fair and open trade, where buyers know exactly what to expect.
Translated by Google TranslateDetails
Culture
Byzantine
Century/timeframe
Byzantine Empire, 6th century AD
Name of object
Relief Plaque with Pegasus
Acquired from
Private collection
Year acquired
2025
Material
Terracotta
Country acquired from
Germany
Condition
Fair
Previous owner acquired from
Antique market
Height
22 cm
Previous owner - year acquired
1960
Width
23 cm
Previous owner - country acquired from
Unknown
Depth
2 cm
I verify that I have obtained this object legally and that I am allowed to sell it
Yes
Authenticity
Original/official
Sold by
Disclaimer
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
