A beautiful, refined work of Classical Greek art. A toned and well centred ancient Greek silver tetradrachm, minted by the city of Gela, on the island of Sicily, circa 420 - 415 BC. The obverse (image ii) with charioteer, driving slow four horse chariot right, holding kentron in left hand and reins in both. Nike, the goddess of victory flies above, crowning the horses with a laurel wreath. The reverse (image i) with the forepart of the local river god Gelas. The deity is shown in the finest Classical style, depicted in typical form, as a man-headed bull. The inscription above reading: GELAS "of the People of Gela" Stamped boldly into the centre of this large four drachm piece is a beguiling, expressive image of the eponymous river god, Gelas. We see just his forepart, his legs shown as if paddling, his body is muscular and powerful, yet his human face is sensitively rendered, in the finest, idealised Classical style. It is clear that this object was never intended as a simple medium of exchange but, as a fine work of art, a proud banner for the city. Weight: 17.20 g Diameter: 26.60 mm Provenance: Ex. Dutch private collection, probably acquired in the 1960s or before.