Anatolian Black Stone Stamp Seal

Rectangular plaque with slightly flared ends, raised border and mounting hole to each corner; crenellation to inner edge of upper border; twelve lines of dense inscription in raised relief, reading in translation: 'Yin'am and his brother, along with their sons, the Banu Rasham, have dedicated this to their god LBNH, the bull of M'RBN, in his sanctuary at Sim'ân. This inscription is a divine ordinance that he has commanded for them on his property, for their wellbeing and the wellbeing of all they have acquired and will acquire. May LBNH increase their prosperity, favour, health, and strength, and may evil, wrong, ill-will, injustice, WTRKS, and 'W/'F of enemies, both far and near, be kept away from them.' 13.4 kg total, 29 cm including stand



German private collection, acquired in 1980. with Christie’s, New York, 4 June 2008, no.93. Acquired by the present owner at the above sale. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by a search certificate number no.12416-225770.

Including fusiform, oblate, biconvex and other types in carnelian, agate and other materials. 269 grams total, 7-28 mm



Acquired 1980-2015. Ex Abelita family collection.

Scaraboid in black glass with gryphon to the underside beneath transverse band with 'ΡΙIΛΚΧ' inscription. 3.53 grams, 17 mm



From an important collection formed before 1988, London and Geneva.