Achaemenid Ram-Headed Bronze Bracelet Pair

Comprising two conjoined kidney-shaped cells decorated with applied trails, extending to a single short neck with everted rim, discoid foot to the base and an applied handle to the shoulder; containing free flowing liquid and congealed organic substance to both cells. 90 grams, 11.1 cm



with Christie's, London, UK, circa 2001. Private collection, Europe. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by a search certificate number no.12432-226701.

Sturdy bronze penannular bracelet with C-section shank and ram-head detailing to the finials, inlaid shell(?) beads for the nostrils. 620 grams, 10.4 cm



Ex London, UK, gallery, 1971-early 2000s. London, UK, collection. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by a search certificate number no.12415-225380.

The bracelet is a product of the Bactria-Margiana Archaeological Complex ('BMAC', also developed from the 'Oxus Civilization') which was the dominant culture in the 3rd and 2nd millennium (often dated to c.2250-1700 B.C.) in that area, corresponding roughly to modern Tajikistan and Afghanistan. The members of the group practised animal husbandry and a limited form of agriculture, with wheeled carts from the 4th millennium B.C. Its craftsmen were proficient at working metals and alloys including bronze, copper, silver, and gold. Fortified sites with multiple walls are another notable development.

Round-section columnar bar with tapering ends, pecked texturing. 4.6 kg, 46 cm



From a collection acquired on the UK art market from various auction houses and collections mostly before 2000. From an important Cambridgeshire estate; thence by descent.