Large Bactrian Black Chlorite 'Hand Bag' Ceremonial Weight

3RD MILLENNIUM B.C.

10 3/8 in. (3.81 kg, 26.2 cm).

D-shaped in profile with a round-section loop and incuse sockets to accept inlay in contrasting colours (mostly absent); obverse with a reserved scene of two opposed human-headed scorpions with ribbed detailing advancing below two smaller scorpions placed perpendicular to them; reverse with a median eagle with wings extended and feather detailing, flanked by rearing serpents and other animals.

Provenance

Acquired before 1983.
Ex London gallery, 1990s.
Private collection, London, UK.

This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.13285-253383.

Literature

Cf. Various, 7000 Years of Iranian Art, Exhibition catalogue, Smithsonian Institute, 1964, p.54 & p.118, illustration no.11.

CONDITION

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LOT 0255