Loading, please wait...
LOT 1255
Large Sasanian Clay Bulla with Seal Impressions
4TH-6TH CENTURY A.D.
1 3/4 in. (34 grams, 46 mm).
Domed body with four seal impressions, one showing the standing nimbate figure of blessing Saint Basil with the Greek inscription 'Αγιος Βα[σι]λ', one with a cross, and two other smaller impressions. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceFrom the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s.
LiteratureCf. similar bulla in Wamser, L., Die Welt von Byzanz - Europas Östliches Erbe, München, 2004, item 762.
CONDITIONTimeLine Auctions follows a vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process
AUCTIONS:
TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.
-
West Central Asian Bronze Double-Headed Heraldic Eagle Seal Matrix
Circa 2300-2000 B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £117
Eagle-shaped seal matrix with a large loop on the back, 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, 25 x 21.5 x 1mm. This bears the shape of the design, with flat compartmented face and flat back of which is mounted a loop handle of metal rod. The design shows a heraldic eagle with two heads: heads at the top sideways, wings hanging beneath, and tail feathers spread at the bottom. This comes from west central Asia and dates to c. 2300-2000 B.C. It is a rare type (the double-headed eagle) and in very good condition save for a nick at the bottom.' 9.51 grams, 25 mm
Acquired in the late 1980s-early 1990s. Ex property of a West London businessman. Academically researched and catalogued by the late Professor Lambert in the early 1990s. Accompanied by a copy of a scholarly report, numbered V-850, typed and signed by Professor Wilfrid George Lambert. -
Western Asiatic Bronze Cat Protome Group
Circa 11th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £117
Each formed as a finial with tall extended neck and sleek feline head, scooped triangular lug to reverse. 47.6 grams total, 44-58 mm
From a UK collection formed in the 1980s. Property of an Essex, UK, gentleman. -
Middle Elamite Copper Figure of a Worshipper
Circa 1500–1100 B.C.Estimate: £4,000 - 6,000 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £2,000
Figure of a worshipper with the hands raised at the waist and standing barefoot on a rectangular plinth, wearing a dress without any visible seams, the embroidery and pattern of the fabric represented by a concentric chevron design; stylised facial features and large almond-shaped eyes, thick twisted roll of fabric holding the hair with a small knot at the top; set on a custom-made stand. 106 grams total, 87 mm including stand
with Mr Modjallal Iradj, France. Acquired by a London, UK gallery, 18 March 1977. Private collection, UK. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.13370-257696.
The Elamite culture was an important civilisation in the ancient Near East that lasted for many centuries, from the 3rd millennium to the 6th century BC. They developed their own style of art, metalwork, and seal designs, as well as their own form of cuneiform writing. Although the Elamites were eventually absorbed into later empires, many aspects of their culture continued to influence the ancient world around them. Objects of this type are understood to be ritual or votive gifts.
