Bactrian Turquoise Bead Necklace

Discoid stamp seal with segmented face; accompanied by an old scholarly note, typed and signed by W.G. Lambert, late Professor of Assyriology, University of Birmingham, 1970-1993, which states: 'Stamp Seal of Bronze. 39x39x12 mm. This is round with flat compartmented face and flat back on which is mounted a broad handle of inverted U-shape. The design consists of a central circle from which eight curving bands spread to the edge, creating a whorl, the bands being hatched. This comes from west central Asia and dates to c. 2300-2000 B.C. It is in very good condition and the hatching on the base of the compartments is unusual.' 24.5 grams, 39 mm



Acquired in the late 1980s-early 1990s. Ex property of a West London businessman. Academically researched and catalogued by the late Professor Lambert in the early 1990s.

Modelled in the round, depicting the (severed?) head of a Mesopotamian demon, with iconic facial features in relief; hollow with a vent to the neck; produced from a two-piece mould, with a median seam through the facial features. 191 grams, 87 mm



Private collection, Israel. with Holy Land House of Antiquities, Jerusalem, 1980s. Acquired by the current owner from the above, 2001. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by a search certificate number no.12878-241678.

Within traditional Mesopotamian religion, Humbaba was a creature regarded as the guardian of the cedar forest and the brother of Pazuzu. He was represented as a giant who had been raised by the sun god, Shamash. However, this head could also refer to another deity or demon, like one of the heads found in the Kish excavations.

Fusiform in profile with deep spout to the rim; two lateral strap handles. 391 grams, 15.5 cm



From the collection of a gentleman, 1988-2000s.