Anatolian Bronze Bull Statue

Comprising two diamond-section penannular hoops with loops; each with three granulated pyramids to the lower edge; the centre of the hoop with a triple-cell set with one green and two red glass (?) gems with granulated outer edges, flanked by two teardrop-shaped cells set with a red glass (?) gem. 2.76 grams total, 19-21 mm



From a late Japanese specialist collector, 1970-2000s.

With a keeled hoop and openwork shield-shaped shoulder with scroll ornament, a diamond-shaped shield with a cross to the base of the hoop; large bezel with an applied stylised bird underneath, the sides with pellet ornament in three rows, four claws holding the 4th-5th century Sassanian intaglio depicting a boar devouring the leg of its prey. 8.63 grams, 25.72 mm overall, 18.95 mm internal diameter (approximate size British P 1/2, USA 7 3/4, Europe 16.86, Japan 16)



Private collection, USA, acquired in the 1990s. Accompanied by a copy of a previous cataloguing information page.

It was a fairly common practice to re-use Sassanian intaglios in Islamic rings from Iran. In Eastern cultures the boar was a sacred animal with magical powers.

Plano-convex in section with broad face, incuse profile image of a lamassu (winged bull with a human head) with pellets and objects in the field. 70 grams, 59 mm



Collected from 1969-1999. From the collection of the late Mr S.M., London, UK.