Loading, please wait...
LOT 0233
Mesopotamian Cuneiform Foundation Nail
3RD-2ND MILLENNIUM B.C.
3 3/4 in. (322 grams, 96 mm).
Conical foundation nail fragment with broad domed top, columns of cuneiform text to the shank.
ProvenanceAcquired in London in 1995.
European private collection.
Cf. similar item in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, under accession no.45.90, for type.
FootnotesTemple nails or cones were placed in the foundations of newly-built temples. Their form imitates nails or pegs and they bear inscriptions stating the name of the reigning king and regnal year, and the god(s) to whom the temple was dedicated.
CONDITIONTimeLine Auctions follows a vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process
AUCTIONS:
TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.
-
Achaemenid Bronze Bowl
5th-4th century B.C.Estimate: £200 - 300 (‡+bp*)
Opening Bid: £100
With broad flange rim, carinated profile and broad dished base. 225 grams, 15.3 cm
Private collection of Mr S.A., Switzerland, 1990s, thence by descent. -
Mesopotamian Carnelian Mouse Amulet
Late 1st millennium B.C.Estimate: £500 - 700 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £250
Modelled in the round with lateral piercing at the neck. 3.81 grams, 21 mm
Ex S collection, London, UK, 1980-1990s. -
Western Asiatic Turquoise Blue Glass Bead Necklace String
1st millennium B.C. and laterSold for (Inc. bp): £59
Restrung using graduated oblate and other beads, central feature with larger oblate and barrel-shaped beads. 5.6 grams, 46 cm long
UK gallery, early 2000s.
Turquoise has been known since prehistoric times, and it is widely used in jewellery in the Middle East (Egypt and Persia), the Far East (Tibet, Mongolia and China) and even by native North Americans. Turquoise was very fashionable also in Europe, especially during the 18th and 19th centuries.
