Large Syro-Hittite Terracotta Goddess Idol

Modelled in the round with the head turned to the right; incised hatching to flanks and neck representing fur; legs with voids between and hooves joined; mounted on a custom-made stand. 41.9 grams, 44 mm including stand



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.

Modelled in the round standing with head raised, recurved horns or antlers, slender muzzle with mouth detailing, incised ring-and-dot motif to shoulders and hips; mounted on a custom-made stand. 69.2 grams total, 80 mm high including stand



London art market, 1978. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by a search certificate number no.12263-220844.

Stylistically, the item shares features with the Hattian stag figurine found in the royal tombs in Alacahöyük (now in the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, Ankara, Turkey) and dating from the period 2100-2000 B.C. The use of ring-and-dot embellishments to the flanks is suggestive of some cultural continuity. The animal depicted is probably an ibex rather than a European stag. However, a date of manufacture in the period after the fall of the Hittite Empire in the 12th century B.C. seems more probable.

Graduated group of mainly annular and oblate beads in various materials, centrepiece a tabular stone with concentric circle motif to each face. 24.9 grams, 43.5 cm



Acquired 1980-2015. Ex Abelita family collection.