A Hellenistic Gold Cup, probably Alexandria, circa 2nd/1st Century B.C.

of rounded form, the body delicately repoussé in relief with four fishermen each on a rocky outcrop, comprising a seated angler wearing a knee-length tunic, a rudder and trident behind him, a man wearing a loin-cloth and casting or pulling his net, a fish-basket behind him, a fragmentary male figure standing with his legs bare, and a nude man wearing a petasos and fishing with a trident, a tree above, an octopus on the rock behind him.

reputedly discovered off the coast of Israel near Akko
Archaeological Center, Robert Deutsch, Ancient Coins and Antiquities, Tel-Aviv, Auction no. 13, September 21st, 1994, no. 326, pp. 78-79, illus. and cover illus. (pre-restoration)
Sotheby's, New York, June 12th, 2001, no. 78, illus.

Jacques Chamay, "Antiquité: Coupe aux pêcheurs," Artpassions, vol. 4, December 2005, pp. 41-45, illus.

The vessel had been crushed in antiquity and has been re-formed and repaired; many small imperfections as a result. Much finely worked detail remains. About a third of the upper part of the vessel is restored in a synthetic material visible in the catalogue images.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.