Ca. 500-300 BC. Hellenistic. A matched pair of ancient Greek gold earrings with hoops made of coiled wires; the lion-mask finial features granulated and applied filigree detailing. Good condition. The item has undergone X-ray fluorescence analysis to confirm the metallurgical content suggesting its ancient origin and lack of modern trace elements. This analysis will accompany the purchase. After Alexander conquered the Persian empire and seized its rich treasures in Babylon, vast quantities of gold passed into circulation. The market for fashionable gold jewellery exploded. Even after the reign of Alexander, his successors for centuries supported flourishing industries of artists and craftsmen, the most important of whom were associated with the Hellenistic royal courts. For more information, see Hemingway, C., Hemingway, S. (2000) "Hellenistic jewellery.” In Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History. New York: The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Size: L:20mm / W:16mm ; 5.8g. Provenance: Property of a North London gentleman; previously acquired on the UK/European art market before 2000.