Large Western Asiatic Gold Hoop Earrings

Modelled in the round standing figure with pinched facial features, transverse collar, applied breasts, arms bent forward, legs close together. 17.7 grams, 83 mm



Private collection of Mr S.A., Switzerland, 1990s, thence by descent.

The Syro-Hittite states rose to prominence in northern Syria and southern Anatolia (modern Turkey) following the collapse of the Hittite Empire, during which time many such figures were produced and widely distributed for domestic use. Such figures, later pejoratively referred to as 'idols', depicted deities often carrying or standing with animals. The present figure's arms are positioned as if holding a lamb or other small animal.

Carved squat-bodied with a broad, rounded shoulder and narrow flat base, short neck and everted rim, four pierced lugs to the shoulders incorporated into a circumferential band of engraved cross-hatching. 746 grams, 11.8 cm



From a British collection, acquired in 1993. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.11835-206783.

Comprising two diamond-section penannular hoops with loops; each with three granulated pyramids to the lower edge; the centre of the hoop with a triple-cell set with one green and two red glass (?) gems with granulated outer edges, flanked by two teardrop-shaped cells set with a red glass (?) gem. 2.76 grams total, 19-21 mm



From a late Japanese specialist collector, 1970-2000s.