A LARGE ROMAN SILVER DISH - CIRCA MID 1ST CENTURY A.D.

The shallow circular plate with a wide overhanging convex rim, offset with a band of beading, decorated in relief with scrolling acanthus, with buds and flowers at the ends of the scrolling arms, separated on each side by a filleted goat head between two facing lions, flanked by tree trunks, details punched, including the lions' inside forepaws, decorative ovals above the lions, and sprigs throughout, on a ring foot. 14¾ in. (37.5 cm.) diameter. Estimate: $140,000 - $180,000

Provenance: Acquired in the 1930s, thence by descent in the 1960s.

Lot Notes: For a related example from the Hildesheim Treasure, with similar acanthus but without the lions and goat heads, see pl. 41B in Strong, Greek and Roman Gold and Silver Plate.

Christie's. ANTIQUITIES.  4 June 2008