A Greco-Roman Amethyst Bead Amulet of a Dove, ca. 1st century BCE

With cross-hatched decoration on its closed wings, long tail feathers with incised lines, pierced for attachment.

The dove is significant to Ancient Greek culture in many respects.  According to one legend, Zeus was raised by doves.  They were the sacred aniimals of the love goddess Aphrodite, to whom these pieces may have been dedicated.  Even the modern tradition of releasing doves at weddings ceremonies can be traced back to the Ancient Greeks whose brides would often give doves to their grooms as gifts.

Dimensions:  Length:  1 inch (2.5 cm)

Condition:  Complete, head professionally rejoined and in very good condition overall.  Custom mounted.

Provenance:  Private NYC collection, ex. CT collection, ex. John N. Winnie, Jr. collection, Georgia, 1980’s-90’s.