Indus Valley Etched Orange Carnelian Bead Necklace String

With slightly sloping sidewall, flat shoulder and everted rim to the broad mouth; painted geometric bands and zoomorphic panels to side and shoulder; chipped, repaired. 406 grams, 12.8 cm wide



Acquired in the mid 1980s-1990s. Private collection, Switzerland, thence by descent. Private collection, since the late 1990s.

Zoomorphic stamp seal with loop handle to the reverse; 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 38x38x12 mm. This bears the shape of the object depicted, with flat face and flat back, on which is mounted a handle of sheet metal with thickened edges. The design, which is compartmented, shows a standing quadruped with big snout and long tail hanging down the back. This comes from west central Asia and dates to c. 2300-2000 B.C. The upper part is bent back and is a little damaged, but generally this is in good condition and is a rare type. The metal is sound.' 26 grams, 41 mm



Ex Signo collection, the property of a West London businessman, formed in the late 1980s-early 1990s; collection number U-17, academically researched and catalogued by the late Professor Lambert in the early 1990s.

Modelled with fleshy features, heavy lidded eyes and strong aquiline nose, wavy hair drawn up in an ushnisha; mounted on a custom-made stand. 597 grams total, 18 cm including stand



Acquired on the London art market. Private collection, 1970s.