Cleveland Museum of Art

Elk Fawn Finial

Date

400–200 BCE

Medium

gold, solid cast

Culture

Western Asia, Scythian

Department

Egyptian and Ancient Near Eastern Art

Institution

Cleveland Museum of Art

This artistically sensitive depiction of an elk fawn describes its features with great artistry, form harmonizing with function. Although a nomadic culture, the Scythians were noted as much for their virtuosity in metalwork as for their equestrian skills. Made of solid gold, this finial is an exquisite example of portable wealth.

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