Indus Valley Terracotta Vessel with Geometric Designs

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 in the round with the hair pulled around the ushnisha top-knot, slender arching eyebrows, almond-shaped eyes with prominent eyelids, pursed lips; mounted on a custom-made display stand. 661 grams total, 20 cm high including stand



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

Modelled in high-relief as a profile figure of an elephant on a pecked field. 1.51 kg, 20.5 cm



From a collection acquired on the UK art market from various auction houses and collections mostly before 2000. From an important Cambridgeshire estate; thence by descent.