Could this 16th century head be a relative bargain for collectors when it sells in Paris? It will auction in Paris on March 26 estimated at €8,000-12,000.
The calcaire (or limestone) head depicts what is believed to be a warrior. His expression is described as "pathetic" in the lot notes.
The head, whose mouth is open to reveal the warrior's teeth, measures 43cm in height.
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This head's provenance is also impressive, having been in the noted ancient artefacts collection of Bernard
and Bertrand Bottet. It is also listed in their records.According to the auctioneer, this head was previously bought for 40,000 francs in Nice in the 1950s.
Taking inflation into account, the head ought to be worth the equivalent of €8,000 in today's money, as reflected in its lower presale estimate.
Given this head's history and provenance, it could see it sell for even more.