Lot 43
Satraps of Caria. Maussollos, 377-353 BC. AR Tetradrachm (15.12 g), Halicarnassus mint. Laureate head of Apollo three-quarters frontal, the clasp and hem of his chlamys visible at neck. Reverse: Zeus Labraundos standing right, resting double-bladed axe (labrys) on right shoulder, holding scepter in left hand; name to right, ME monogram at left. MMAG Auc. 61 (1982), lot 145 (same dies); Kraay-Hirmer 638 (= SNG von Aulock 2358) same obv. die; Hurter, Studies, Price, 152, and p. 33, 39. The superb portrait perfectly centered, with a regal yet pensive air. Toned. Rare. NGC graded Extremely Fine.
Prior to Alexander the Great's conquests, much of Asia Minor was under Persian domination, and was administered by governors or satraps under the direct control of Persia's Great King. Caria, on the southwest coast of present-day Turkey, was a far-flung and rich province that was more immersed and partial to Hellenic culture than towards the Persian of its overlords. Caria's satrap, Mausollos, exemplified this regional trait, with his love of Greek art very apparent in the above coin, with its splendid and inspired depiction of one of Greece's most favored gods, Apollo, who here is rendered in an especially fine style. However, what is perhaps the most renowned example exemplifying his artistic sympathies, was the large and richly sculpted tomb which was commissioned for him by his widow, Artemisia. The structure was so impressive in size and artistry that it was regarded as one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. In fact, it is from this monument and his name that we get the word, Mausoleum.
Estimated Value $6,000 - 7,000.
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| Realized $8,338 |
