Etruscan Antefix (500s-400s BCE)
Molded c. late 500s–early 400s BCE, this Etruscan terracotta caps a roof tile with a maiden’s face.
Europe
European antiquities represent the long and varied cultural history of the continent. These objects reflect artistic traditions, technological developments, and social practices that shaped everyday life and cultural expression across different periods.
Crossbow of Elector Augustus I of Saxony (1553-1573 CE)
Crafted c. 1553–1573, this Saxon crossbow with bone inlays and etched steel reflects Renaissance artistry.
David Victorious Over Goliath (1722 CE)
Modeled in 1722, this Florentine terracotta by Foggini shows a humble David on a defeated Goliath in Baroque style.
Monstrance With a Relic of St Sebastian (1484 CE)
Crafted in 1484, this Brunswick monstrance of gilded silver and crystal encases Saint Sebastian’s relic.
St. Francis Bowl (1531 CE)
Fired in 1531, this Italian maiolica bowl from Deruta shows st. Francis receiving stigmata in vivid colors.
Athena Mirror Box (330–270 BCE)
Cast 330–270 BCE, this Greek bronze mirror with gilding bears a riveted Athena relief on its lid.
Enthroned Mother of God (950-1025 CE)
Carved 950–1025 CE, this Byzantine ivory panel from Constantinople seats the mother of god and Christ with angels above.
Nautilus Cup (1607 CE)
Crafted in 1607, this Dutch silver-gilt and nautilus shell cup by van der Burch features a sea monster head.
Saint Andrew (1515–1520 CE)
Carved around 1515–1520, this oak figure from the Netherlands poses Saint Andrew with an X-shaped cross, lightly painted.
Scyphate (1059-1067 CE)
Struck 1059–1067 CE, this concave gold scyphate coin from Byzantium shows Christ enthroned and Emperor Constantine X crowned.
Vesperbild or Pieta (1515-1520 CE)
Sculpted between 1515 and 1520, this lindenwood vesperbild from Germany shows Mary cradling Christ, finished with polychrome and gilding.
Jesse (c.1500 CE)
Carved around 1500, this limewood figure by Veit Stoss from Germany shows Jesse asleep, painted with polychromy.