Mesopotamian Shell Bead Necklace

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 scalloped edge, flat face and flat back, on which is mounted an angular handle with pear-shaped hole. The design, which is compartmented and partly open-work, consists of the outer band with scalloped rim within which are four plant motifs consisting of a central bud and two projecting leaves. The stems of two of these motifs join in the middle. The other two end in a triangle shape. This comes from west central Asia and dates to c.2300-2000 B.C. It is an [sic] extremely large and with a fine design. Generally it is in very good condition, but there is slight damage to the rim at one point, and a small dent on one of the leaves. Also the rim is bent over a little at one point. The back has been vigorously cleaned. But this remains a major example of its kind.' 170 grams, 96 mm wide



From the collection of a London gentleman, pre 2000. Accompanied by an original typed and signed scholarly note 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.

Restrung; composed of graduated and polished beads of mainly spherical and oval types and mainly carnelian. 15.2 grams, 24 cm long



UK gallery, early 2000s.

A kneeling bowman among fronds drawing his bow towards an advancing bull. 4.4 grams, 20 mm



Acquired 1970s-1996. Property of a North American collector; collection no.044. London collection, 2016.