Akkadian Bronze Mace Head

A Levantine or Assyrian domed bronze helmet of ovoid shape with slightly pointed top and integral cheek-pieces; chased low-relief decoration to both front and back depicting insignia of a pair of opposing ibexes flanking a small palm tree; the edge with regularly disposed holes for fastening of the leather lining; accompanied by a custom-made display stand. 458 grams, 23 cm high (2.36 kg total, 31.5 cm high including stand)

Fine condition, some restoration.

Acquired 1960s-1990s. Late Alison Barker collection, a retired London barrister. 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 no.11386-190447.

This rare helmet is an unusual example of a conical strap-helmet, linked with similar Greek strap helmets, but until now in the Near East, known only from the Assyrian reliefs. It is shown together with the crested helmets, on the reliefs of Tiglapilaser III and Sennacherib.

A bronze sword with flanged hilt, penannular guard and strong midrib running to the pointed tip, hilt and pommel open to accept inlays, bronze fastening nail still visible in the pommel. 477 grams, 39 cm



Ex S. Motamed collection. with Bellman's Auctions, 20th-26th June 2015, lot 2482. Property of a London gentleman.

According to Khorasani and Negahban, blade and grip of this kind of swords were cast in one-piece mould. The penannular guard was later added to the blade.

A bronze mace head with cylindrical shaft extended over the top, rounded knobs around the swollen head, flanked by horizontal grooved bands. 272 grams, 12.5 cm high

Fine condition.

Acquired mid 1980s to early 1990s. Private family collection formed in London, UK.