Elamite Recumbent Bull Pendant

Modelled in the round standing with head raised, recurved horns or antlers, slender muzzle with mouth detailing, incised ring-and-dot motif to shoulders and hips; mounted on a custom-made stand. 69.2 grams total, 80 mm high including stand



London art market, 1978. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by a search certificate number no.12263-220844.

Stylistically, the item shares features with the Hattian stag figurine found in the royal tombs in Alacahöyük (now in the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, Ankara, Turkey) and dating from the period 2100-2000 B.C. The use of ring-and-dot embellishments to the flanks is suggestive of some cultural continuity. The animal depicted is probably an ibex rather than a European stag. However, a date of manufacture in the period after the fall of the Hittite Empire in the 12th century B.C. seems more probable.

With lateral curled horns and wedge-shaped muzzle, ribbed loop to the rear. 11.8 grams, 28 mm



From an old English collection, 1990s. Property of an Essex, UK, gentleman.

With incuse design in two rows; accompanied by a museum-quality impression and typed and signed scholarly note issued by W.G. Lambert, Professor of Assyriology at the University of Birmingham 1970-1993, which states: 'Cylinder Seal of Fossil Shell, 38x10 mm. The design is a pattern in two identical but staggered registers. In each there are two alternating motifs: the one a simple cross with horizontal and diagonal cuts around it, the other more like a flying insect also with supporting cuts. From Mesopotamia, c. 3000 B.C. Condition good.' 6.6 grams, 38 mm



Ex S. collection, London, UK, 1980s-2000s. Accompanied by an original type and signed scholarly note by the late W.G. Lambert, Professor of Assyriology at the University of Birmingham, 1970-1993.