Details

LOT 0255

Massive Central Asian Bronze Figural Compartmented Stamp Seal with Engraved Animal Backplate

CIRCA 2300-2000 B.C.

3 3/8 in. (82.8 grams, 87 mm).

Accompanied by a typed and signed scholarly note written by Professor Wilfrid George Lambert FBA (1926-2011), historian, archaeologist, and specialist in Assyriology and Near Eastern archaeology, in the late 1980s and early 1990s, which states: 'This is round, with outer scalloped edge. The face is flat, and so is the back, with angular pierced handle mounted. The design on the face is both compartmented and open-work. It is repeated on the back with linear scratching. It shows a standing man holding a hare in each of his outstretched arms, while two birds are perched on his shoulders. The whole design is put within an outer band with the outer scalloped rim. This comes from west central Asia and dates to c. 2300-2000 B.C. It is extremely large and has a rare, possibly unique design. The engraving on the back is rare with its regularly notched edges to all the creatures. The outer rim is dented, and one small section of the outer band is lacking, but otherwise it is in good condition.'

Provenance

Ex S Collection, London, UK, 1970-1990s.

Accompanied by a typed scholarly note signed by Professor Wilfrid George Lambert FBA (1926-2011), historian, archaeologist, and specialist in Assyriology and Near Eastern archaeology, in the late 1980s and early 1990s with reference no.R-910.