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Details
LOT 1309
Achaemenid Bronze Phiale Mesomphalos
6TH-4TH CENTURY B.C.
6 1/2 in. (167 grams, 16.5 cm).
With flanged rim, central mesomphalos boss surrounded by radiating lotus petals.
Provenance
Acquired 1980-2015.
Ex Abelita family collection.
This lot has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database, and is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato.
Literature
See Godard, F., The Art of Iran, London, 1965, for discussion.
Footnotes
Phiale mesomphalos (literally: bowl with central boss) were the most popular form of vessel and were produced in a number of materials, including clay, bronze, silver and gold. They are a distinctive type of Achaemenid tableware, made by hammering or raising sheet metal, with decoration added in repoussé. They were used in banquets held by the nobility and for pouring libations at religious festivals. Phiales of this kind were a common gift from the Achaemenid king to the nobility which helped cement alliances among the different tribes of the Empire. The central boss to the underside allowed the user to secure their fingers and ensure a solid grip whilst drinking or pouring.
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