Large Western Asiatic Ribbed Bronze Earring Pair

Rectangular in profile with carved detailing; obverse with standing figure in ankle-length robe, bearded head turned; dividing rib beside an advancing lion with mouth open; reverse scene with perching bird and other items; pierced vertically for mounting. 97 grams, 64 mm



Collected from 1970-1999. From the collection of the late Mr S.M., London, UK.

A finely modelled two-humped camel, shown in a dynamic pose, possibly in the act of kneeling and balancing its body weight on its bent back and front legs; mounted in a display frame. 245 grams total, 17.5 cm including frame



Ex London, UK, gallery, 1971-early 2000s. Property of a London gentleman.

Camels were a symbol of wealth and well-being. The importance of the Bactrian camel is attested in the ancient sources. The two-humped Bactrian camel, object of many seal representations, was already widespread in North India during the first quarter of the 2nd millennium B.C. It was probably an Aryan introduction. The Mitanni came from Bactria and Margiana and maintained a close connection with their regions of origin, via Khorasan, as can be suggested by the presence of Bactrian camels on the Mitanni seals.

With frieze of antelopes and a tree. 1.78 grams, 22 mm



Acquired 1970s-1996. Property of a North American collector; collection no.021. London collection, 2016.