Large Western Asiatic Style Ceramic Bowl with Mythical Beast

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.

Deep elongated vessel, carved with an image of a reclining Lamassu on one side, the hind legs and the right front leg tucked beneath the body, the left front leg raised on the side of the head, the head modelled in the half-round with a characteristic long beard and hair framing the face; accompanied by a display stand. 781 grams, 19.5 cm (1.12 kg total including stand)



From an important London-Geneva collection, formed before 1988, by family descent. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.13371-258817.

The Lamassu was a protective deity related to several Mesopotamian civilisations (Assyrian in particular, where it was represented as a winged bull-man). They were considered beneficial and protective spirits, guardians of the doors with an apotropaic function, destined to ward off dark or hostile forces.

Carved in the round with indented nostrils and mouth, domed eyes, horns spread above the ears; mounted on a custom-made stand. 170 grams total, bull: 34 mm, 89 mm high including stand



Acquired on the American (?) art market. Private collection, London, UK.