An Achaemenid gold bracelet, circa 5th century BC.  Estimation: USD 20,000 - 30,000. Photo Christie's Image Ltd 2015

The solid hoop of pennanular form, bulging at the center, with flaring terminals - 33⁄16 in. (8.1 cm.) wide; weight: 7.35 oz.

Private Collection, Iran, 1960s.
with Aaron Gallery, Tehran.
with Bluett & Sons, London, acquired from the above, 1979.
Private Collection, U.S., acquired from the above, 1981.
with Acanthus, New York, 1993. 

PROVENANCE: with Gallery Six, New York.
Acquired by the current owner from the above, 1994.

Notes: The Greek historian Xenophon (430-354 B.C.) wrote that bracelets were among the gifts highly esteemed amongst the Persians (Anabasis I.2.27). Glazed brick panels from the Achaemenid city of Susa depict archers wearing bracelets, and reliefs at the capital city of Persepolis depict bracelets being given as tribute to the King. The particular shape seen here is a common type in Achaemenid jewelry, often with the addition of animals head terminals (see pp. 132-133 in J. Curtis and N. Tallis, eds., Forgotten Empire: The World of Ancient Persia).

Christie's. Ancient Jewelry sale - Online auctions December 1 -10.