Mesopotamian Stone Bowl Collection

Formed as three vertical bars joined near the base; accompanied by an old scholarly note, typed and signed by W.G. Lambert, late Professor of Assyriology, University of Birmingham, 1970-1993, which states: 'Stamp Seal of Bronze 54 x 48 x 26mm This bears the shape of the design, with flat face and flat back, on which is mounted a handle of angular shape with rounded top. The piece has roughly three parallel vertical segments, which join in the middle, the whole being surrounded by a rim. Each segment has a row of dots in it: four in the two outer segments, six in the middle one, which is longer. This comes from western central Asia and dates to c. 2300-2000 B.C. It is extremely rare for its design, which may be understood as a stylized depiction of a standing four-winged god, but this is not completely certain.The piece is generally in good condition, but is a little bent.' 25 grams, 53 mm



Ex S collection, deceased, London, UK, 1990s. Accompanied by an original scholarly note, typed and signed by Professor Wilfrid George Lambert.

Hemispherical in profile with thin rim. 140 grams, 92 mm



Ex 1990s collection and with a central London gallery.

Modelled in the round in the form of a lizard with a long arched neck, bulbous body and thick, curved, round-section tail; two guide-loops to the upper face. 128 grams, 13.2 cm



Acquired in the mid-1980s to early 1990s. Private collection, London, UK.

The Luristan culture is best known for its remarkable metalwork, especially the finely cast bronzes created during the early first millennium B.C. These objects, such as weapons, horse fittings, and decorative plaques, show a strong artistic imagination, with bold shapes and lively animal designs. Although little is known about the people themselves, their metalwork had a lasting impact, and Luristan bronzes remain some of the most distinctive and admired artefacts from the ancient Near East.