117
117
c. 1900
red porphyry 6⅛ h × 3½ dia in (16 × 9 cm)
red porphyry 6⅛ h × 3½ dia in (16 × 9 cm)
estimate: $1,000–1,500
result: $1,114
Since the ancient times, porphyry has been historically treasured as a luxury item for its distinct purplish red color and the rarity. The quarrying and transporting of porphyry required skillful handling due to the stone’s hardness, and the Roman Empire was able to further increase its value by monopolizing the industry in the Egyptian desert.
This work will ship from Chicago, Illinois.