Famous Minoan Bull-leaping Fresco, Knossos Crete. Vintage 1978/79. VERY BIG VERY HEAVY.

Description

Famous Minoan Bull-leaping Fresco from ancient Minoan civilization, Knossos Crete. Replica circa 1978/79.

The original bull-leaping fresco (also known as the Toreador Fresco) was discovered by Sir Arthur Evans during his excavations of Knossos Palace in Crete in 1900. Evans's work at Knossos led to the identification of the ancient Minoan civilization.

My parents purchased this replica of The Leaping-bull Fresco around 1978/1979 during our first family holiday, in Crete, when I was just a baby. Goodness knows how they got it home – it weighs nearly 4kg!

The scene depicts the ancient Minoan sport or ritual of bull-leaping, where individuals performed acrobatic feats over the back of a charging bull.

The combined technique used to create this piece is known as Fresco painting with Stucco relief:

Fresco is the technique of painting on wet plaster, which allows the colours to integrate with the plaster as it dries.

Stucco is a fine plaster that is used to create three-dimensional, raised elements on the surface of an artwork to add depth and texture.

Images 1 and 2 have been taken in direct sunlight to allow for thorough examination of the piece.

Images 3 and 4 were taken indoors, to demonstrate how the piece looks when hung on the wall.

The piece is encased in a thick wooden frame. There are some minor signs of wear to the edges and corners of the frame, and some very minor warping, all of which has occurred naturally over the years, please see photos.

The reverse is covered with brown paper, and handwritten in pen in the top righthand corner, are the words “N° 515”, please see photo.

There is a simple metal hook for hanging, with some minor wear to the brown paper below the hook, please see photo.

Please examine the photos, as these form part of the description.

MEASUREMENTS
Height: 40cm
Width: 72cm
Depth: 2cm
Weight: 4kg

Due its size and weight, I would recommend buyer collection if you are local to London N19 5EQ. However, I could discuss delivery options with you if you live further away.

-- -- --

I am clearing the family home after my mum passed away last year.

The majority of the items I have listed on my page belonged to my mum and dad.

The condition of the items that I am selling are either: Used Like New/Good, or they are Brand New Wrapped/Boxed.

If you have questions, I am happy to answer them, but please be kind. I'm going through a lot right now. I am a private seller, not a business.

Kindly note that this item is also listed on other platforms and will be removed if sold elsewhere.

Please consider viewing my other listings.

Thank you for your interest.

Ad ID: 1500355144