Achaemenid Bronze Phiale

Comprising two conical spindle whorls, the larger with stylised human figures and quadrupeds, the smaller with ring-and-dot decoration. 9.39 grams total, 18-23 mm



Acquired in the 1980s-2000s. From an important London, UK, collection.

Densely carved scene with two types of rearing horned animals in combat, depicted with long tails and with fur detailing on the bodies, pellets and other motifs on the field; accompanied by a museum quality impression. 52.5 grams, 44 mm



From the collection of a gentleman, acquired on the London art market in the 1990s.

Modelled in the half-round with hollow reverse; thick band of hair above the brow, small deep-set eyes, broad nose and mouth with three raised bands extending to a short beard; mounted on a custom-made stand. 128 grams total, 11.5 cm including stand



London art market, 1995. Private collection, Switzerland. Private collection, London. Accompanied by an academic report by Dr Raffaele D’Amato. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.12971-245208.

Humbaba (or Huwawa) was a demon of Mesopotamian legend, most famously described in the Epic of Gilgamesh. He was appointed by the god Enlil as the terrifying guardian of the Cedar Forest, a place of the gods. His grotesque features, with glaring eyes and monstrous expressions, were said to strike fear into anyone who saw him. Babylonian representations of Humbaba often emphasise this fierce appearance, with distorted facial traits designed to ward off evil. Such images could serve an apotropaic purpose, protecting people and places from harm, while also evoking one of the most memorable figures of Babylonian mythology.