Achaemenid Bronze Flared Phiale Mesomphalos

Restrung designer necklace with two central feature beads; composed of graduated beads of various types of stone, glass and shell. 25.7 grams total, 45 cm



Acquired 1980-2015. Ex Abelita family collection.

Similar beads were found during the excavations of the royal tombs of Nimrud. Thousands of beads were discovered in the sarcophagi, including those of Nimrud’s Queens; they probably originally formed part of wide collars with multiple strands.

Plano-convex seal with profile bust; accompanied by a copy of a scholarly note dated 4th August 1999 by A.D.H. (David) Bivar and a museum-quality impression: 'Sasanian Seal. About 4th to 5th century A.D. Greyish-brown chalcedony ellipsoid Sasanian portrait, r. Around, Pahlavi inscription wlwny ZY kwlyky Varūn ī Kōrīg 'V. who (is son) of K.' For the first name, the parallel Varīn is attested. For the second, we find Kōrīn as a parallel. these exact forms are previously unrecorded.' 10.9 grams, 25 mm



UK private collection, 1980-1983. Accompanied by a copy of a scholarly note dated 4th August 1999, typed and signed by A.D.H. (David) Bivar.

Bivar was a British numismatist and archaeologist, who was appointed Emeritus Professor of Iranian Studies at the SOAS (School of Oriental and African Studies), University of London. Among his specialisms was the study of Sasanian seals and art.

Each armlet composed of a substantial round-section penannular hoop with terminals formed as stylised opposed animal heads, ring-and-dot motifs representing the eyes and highlighting other anatomical detailing, together with dashes, dimples, chevrons and crescents. 1.19 kg total, 13-13.1 cm



with a London, UK gallery, 1971-early 2000s. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by a search certificate number no.12265-220622.