Boat-Shaped Earring with Sphinx

Description This earring was discussed by Berta Segall who saw a combination of Greek, Phoenician, and Egyptian motifs that suggest a date slightly before 320 BC, and a workshop possibly in Alexandria. The fully modeled sphinx and the elaborate and different decoration of each side of the earring make this an unusual and rare ornament.

Exhibitions

• Jewelry - Ancient to Modern. The Walters Art Gallery, Baltimore. 1979-1980.
• From Alexander to Cleopatra: Greek Art of the Hellenistic Age. The Walters Art Gallery, Baltimore. 1988-1989.

Provenance Henry Walters, New York [date and mode of acquisition unknown]; Sadie Jones (Mrs. Henry Walters), New York, 1931, by inheritance; Mrs. Henry Walters Sale, New York, Parke-Bernet Galleries, December 2, 1943, lot 524; Walters Art Museum, 1943, by purchase.

Credit Museum purchase with funds provided by the S. & A.P. Fund, 1943