Hittite Ceramic Idol Head

With segmented face and pierced lug handle; 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. 39x41x8 mm. This has the shape of a seven-pointed star marked on the convex back as if seven petals around the central loop handle. The face is flat and has a design engraved into it. The interpretation of the design is not completely sure, but it seems to involve an eagle, perhaps carrying off prey. This comes from west central Asia and dates to c. 2300-2000 B.C. It is a rare type and the design is fascinating. The metal has been conserved and the piece is in very good condition.' 18.5 grams, 41 mm



From the collection of the late Mr S, 1970-1990s. Accompanied by an original typed and signed scholarly note by the late W.G. Lambert, Professor of Assyriology at the University of Birmingham, 1970-1993. This lot has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database, and is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato.

A matched pair of large earrings decorated with pomegranates on the outer edge, the crescentic body divided in transversal grooves representing the abdomen of a bee, with granulation on the inner and outer edge, a horizontal gold wire with circlets to the centre. 23.78 grams total, 38 mm each



From a private family collection formed since the early 19th century, thence by descent. Property of a New Zealand legal professional. Accompanied by an academic report by Dr Raffaele D’Amato. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.12326-223715. This lot has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database, and is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato.

Fruit were generally considered to be a symbol of sensuality, temptation and fertility; the giving and accepting of fruit may be regarded as a symbolic sexual act, or at least a prelude to marriage. It follows naturally that the pomegranate, with its innumerable fleshy seeds symbolising life and fecundity, was an attribute of Aphrodite.

Biconical body with tall tapering spout, collar to the tapering neck with tear-drop shaped mouth; strap handle surmounted by a ram-head appliqué; a marriage. 1.45 kg, 29.7cm



UK collection, 1990s. Acquired on the UK art market, before 2000. Private collection, Mr M.V., a London-based businessman. This lot has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database, and is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato.