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Medieval Artefacts to Be Auctioned This Weekend

History collectors will have the chance to acquire medieval artefacts at two auctions this weekend. Apollo Art Auctions is hosting two events: the first, focusing on Islamic, Indian, and Chinese art, and the second, featuring Fine Ancient Art & Antiquities. Both will take place in London with online bidding options available.

The December 14 auction centres on Islamic, Indian, and Chinese artworks spanning centuries, while the December 15 event offers a diverse selection of antiquities from ancient civilizations to the medieval period. Here are some of the medieval objects being highlighted.

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Chinese Terracotta Camel

A Tang Dynasty (circa 618-907 AD) terracotta camel playfully depicts the desert beast with its head thrown back as though braying, accompanied by a lively monkey on a cushioned saddle. Bidding starts at £3,000.

Persian Wall Panel

A large, early 14th-century molded pottery tile wall panel in turquoise and cobalt blue showcases floral relief detailing and six central stellar cobalt-blue glazed sections per square. Bidding starts at £20,000.

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Sogdian Incense Burner

A rare Sogdian (7th-8th century AD) silver incense burner, sculpted as an elephant with an ornately dressed rider, leads the highlights. Bearing the Arabic signature of “Fazil” or “Faisal,” its intricate floral motifs and openwork reflect advanced artistry and Asian palace art influences. The bidding starts at £400,000.

Other artefacts going up for bid include a Mamluk manuscript and an Abbasid Wood Plaque. You can bid through the Apollo Art Auctions website or LiveAuctioneers.

Viking Dish

A rare Viking silver dish, dating to circa AD 800-1000, features a simple yet elegant design with a round high pedestal disc foot. The shallow basin is adorned with concentric decorations and a central motif of running animals, showcasing craftsmanship from the Viking Age. Bidding starts at £8,000.

Medieval Ring

A Medieval English iconographic gold ring, dating to circa AD 1400-1500, features a D-section hoop with slightly enlarged shoulders forming a high octagonal section. The ring is engraved with a detailed scene of St. Christopher carrying the Christ Child across a river, exemplifying the artistry of the late medieval period. the bidding will begin at £5,000.

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Byzantine Strap Ends

A group of five Byzantine gold belt strap ends, dating to circa AD 400-800, showcases exquisite craftsmanship and likely originates from three different belts. The first fitting features an incised phytomorphic motif with filigree detailing. The second and third depict busts of Emperor Theodosius the Great, while the fourth has a rounded design with an intricately incised floral motif retaining traces of inlay. The fifth, smaller in size, depicts the god Mars. The second, third, and fifth fittings likely belonged to the same belt, suggesting they were once owned by a high-ranking soldier or statesman during Theodosius’ reign.

Other medieval items in the Fine Ancient Art & Antiquities include a 7th-century sword, a Late Medieval Memento Mori Silver Ring, and a collection of iron spearheads. You can bid through the Apollo Art Auctions website or LiveAuctioneers.

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