Amorite Terracotta Idol of a Standing Woman

With rounded edges, obverse with an incised grid and dense cuneiform text across about half the available surface; reverse with remains of two columns of text; both ends absent. 95 grams, 61 mm



Specialised collection of cuneiform texts, the property of a London gentleman and housed in London before 1992. Thence by descent to family members. Examined by Professor Wilfrid George Lambert FBA (1926-2011), historian, archaeologist, and specialist in Assyriology and Near Eastern archaeology, in the late 1980s and early 1990s. This small collection is exceptional for the variety of types, including some very rare and well preserved examples.

With outstretched wings and erect body, open beak and eyes hollowed to accept inserts, five-feather spread tail and a rectangular socket to the back; mounted on a custom-made display stand. 430 grams total, 11 cm including stand



Béla Hein collection, Paris, France, before 1931. 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 a search certificate number no.12569-232077.

Béla Hein (1883-1931) was a prominent dealer and collector of African art in early 20th century Paris. In the early 1920s, he founded a gallery specialising in African art, contemporary sculpture, and a variety of curiosities, including antiquities. Hein's influence extended across the art world, and his collection reflected a keen eye for both historical and aesthetic significance.

Conical with a narrow, slightly rounded base; repaired. 1.66 kg, 22 cm diameter



Acquired in the early 2000s. Private collection, UK. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by a search certificate number no.12705-235147.