Bactrian Stone Tent Weight

Modelled in the round standing figure with pinched facial features, transverse collar, applied breasts, arms bent forward, legs close together. 17.7 grams, 83 mm



Private collection of Mr S.A., Switzerland, 1990s, thence by descent.

The Syro-Hittite states rose to prominence in northern Syria and southern Anatolia (modern Turkey) following the collapse of the Hittite Empire, during which time many such figures were produced and widely distributed for domestic use. Such figures, later pejoratively referred to as 'idols', depicted deities often carrying or standing with animals. The present figure's arms are positioned as if holding a lamb or other small animal.

Comprising two pillow-shaped clay tablets comprising: one in dark brown material, cuneiform text to both broad faces and one edge, polished surface, end of the third millennium but with an Akkadian administrative text; one in tan-coloured material, cuneiform text to both broad faces and three edges, a legal text from the beginning of the second millennium. 90 grams total, 45-51 mm



Acquired in the 1970s. European private collection.

Comprising the upper body of a nude male and a female worshipper; the male with his hands clasped across the chest; the female with her hands clasped on her stomach; mounted on a custom-made display stand. 806 grams total, 10.1 cm high (15.5 cm high including stand)



By repute from an old collection. Acquired on the US art market, circa 2004. Private collection since 2004. Accompanied by a copy of an Israeli export permit. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.12083-214173.