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Auction: 391 - World Banknotes at NY INC
Lot: 491

Banque de Syrie et du Grand-Liban, Lebanon, 100 Livres, 1935-9, serial number 455327,
per the convention of the 31st March 1939, the Banque de Syrie et du Grand-Liban (BSGL) underwent a transformation, becoming the Banque de Syrie et du Liban (BSL). The issuance of banknotes commenced on the 1st of April 1939, featuring distinctive horizontal black SYRIE 1939 overprints on the front. These banknotes were printed by Bradbury Wilkinson & Co. Ltd in London.
The obverse of this intriguing banknote is embellished with a horizontal black SYRIE 1939 overprint, seamlessly blending Arabic and French text. A meticulously crafted scene unfolds, showcasing depictions of boats, an automobile, and the imposing Banque de Syrie headquarters building in the vibrant city of Beirut, Lebanon. The combination of these elements paints a vivid picture of a bustling urban landscape, with a subtle nod to the economic significance represented by the central bank.
On the reverse, this captivating banknote unveils a rich tapestry of history, meticulously rendering the head of a lion inspired by the ancient frieze adorning the Temple of Jupiter. This sacred structure, an architectural marvel of antiquity, stood as a testament to the religious and cultural fervour that once graced the region. The Temple of Jupiter, adorned with towering columns and intricate carvings, served as a sanctuary dedicated to the chief deity of the Roman pantheon, exuding an aura of divine power and reverence.
The lion's visage, a powerful symbol of strength and majesty, echoes the motifs that adorned the sacred walls of the temple. As the central figure on this banknote, it not only pays homage to the artistic prowess of ancient craftsmen but also serves as a bridge to the spiritual significance attributed to the Temple of Jupiter.
The surrounding landscape on the banknote gracefully frames the lion, with the city of Antioch sprawling along the banks of the Orontes River. This strategic location at the base of Mount Silpius not only made Antioch a vital centre of commerce and culture but also positioned it in the shadow of the awe-inspiring Temple of Jupiter. The banknote, thus, becomes a visual narrative, inviting us to imagine the grandeur of this ancient sanctuary and its role as a cultural beacon in the historical mosaic of the region.
In essence, the inclusion of the Temple of Jupiter's lion frieze on these banknotes transcends aesthetics, becoming a captivating window into the sacred and monumental heritage that once defined the landscapes of ancient Syria. They transform the banknotes into more than just currency but a tangible link to a bygone era where architecture, spirituality, and artistic expression converged in splendid harmony
(Pick 39Fa, BNB 218a), in PMG holder 25 Very Fine, only 3 notes in a higher grade

Sold for
£2,000

Starting price
£1100