Sep Ancient Art & Paintings & Collectibles
Lot 185:
Description
H:8.7cm L:2.7cm W:2.2cm Wt:90.5g
Silver-gilt chased sculpture depicting two knights with a family crest carved in bloodstone jasper.Modelled as two medieval knights in full armour embracing one another, it is a classic European sculptural theme representing comrades-in-arms and mutual loyalty unto death. Clasped tightly together in full plate armour, one knight raises a round shield above them both, symbolising the pact of mutual protection and shared fate upon the battlefield.Beneath the handle sits a square bloodstone (heliotrope) base supporting the sculptural group and seal matrix.The twin-lion shield is the central heraldic emblem of the Kingdom of Castile. This seal most likely belonged to a Spanish noble house, distinguished by a marquis-rank coronet. It was used for document sealing, authentication of collections and securing confidential correspondence against forgery.
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