Kassite Agate Eye Bead with Cuneiform Inscription for King Kurigalzu II in Gold Mount

1400-1000 B.C.

1 5/8 in. (18.30 grams, 42 mm).

Polished cabochon in a gold frame with radiating bosses, integral loop; reverse with four incised columns of cuneiform text naming Kurigalzu II.

Provenance

Private collection, Mrs M.V., circa 1980s.
Kept in Switzerland since the late 1980s.

This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.13202-249238.

Literature

See Bonhams, 4 December 2025, no.5 (£190,900 inc. Bp); cf. similar (unmounted) inscribed sardonyx in the Morgan Library & Museum, New York under reference '086. Eye Stone Amulet'.

Footnotes

The cuneiform inscription names Kurigalzu II (c.1332-1308 B.C.), 'strong man, King of Babylon, son of Burnaburiaš.' Kurigalzu II was one of the most powerful Kassite rulers, known for his military campaigns and extensive building projects, including the foundation of the city of Dur-Kurigalzu. Inscribed Kassite agate eye beads are rare and are generally understood to have served amuletic or votive functions, combining royal titulary with protective symbolism.

CONDITION

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LOT 0250