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LOT 0213
Aramaic Magical Bowl Bearing an Incantation Against Evil Spirits
4TH-8TH CENTURY A.D.
7 5/8 in. (692 grams, 19.5 cm wide).
A ceramic flat-based bowl, inscribed in spiral from the bottom inner wall to the rim with Aramaic text, and on the outer rim.
ProvenanceEarly 1990s London collection.
Acquired on the UK art market.
From a private collection, Lancashire, UK
Cf. The Israel Museum, Jerusalem, accession number: 80.001.0001.
FootnotesAramaic incantation bowls are particular to the Sassanian period and have been found in the regions of modern Iraq. These simple ceramic bowls, also known as magic bowls, each contain an Aramaic inscription, written in ink, which spirals from the centre. The bowls seem to have played an important part in domestic life. For example, during excavation in Nippur in 1889, one or more incantation bowls were found in each house together with domestic artefacts, most often in doorways or under floorboards in the corner of rooms. The bowls are predominantly apotropaic, and the inscriptions tend to protect their owners from misfortunes such as child-birth, illness and evil spirits.
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AUCTIONS:
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LOT 0213
Aramaic Magical Bowl Bearing an Incantation Against Evil Spirits
Sold for (Inc. bp): £780
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Akkadian Cylinder Seal with Combat Scene
24th-22nd century B.C.Estimate: £600 - 800 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £300
A marble cylinder seal with frieze; accompanied by an old scholarly note, typed and signed by W.G. Lambert, late Professor of Assyriology, University of Birmingham, 1970-1993, which states: 'Cylinder seal of white marble, 28 x 20 mm. Design : a standing hero with spikey hair is defending two horned animals being attacked by two lions. A second such hero is grappling with a monster with long plait. Akkadian, c.2400-2200 B.C. Condition very good save for chipped edges.' 16.1 grams, 29 mm
From an important family collection. 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. -
Western Asiatic Terracotta House with Inhabitants
20th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £91
A terracotta diorama comprising a Middle Eastern conical hut or dwelling with arched frame around the D-shaped entrance; two figures placed beside the doorway: to the left a tall slender with luxuriant curls male wearing a textured shirt (mailcoat?) and ruched trousers, barefoot, resting his head on the frame; to the right a shorter bearded male waring a cloak and quilted tunic and trousers. 9.1 kg, 27 cm
Acquired 1970-1999. Ex collection of deceased Mayfair gentleman. -
Western Asiatic Gold Butterfly Bead
2nd-1st millennium B.C.Estimate: £400 - 600 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £222
A sheet-gold 'butterfly' bead of hollow construction. 5.16 grams, 35 mm
Fine condition.
Acquired 1970-2010. Collection of a late Japanese gentleman.
