Neo Assyrian Pazuzu Head with Lamashtu

1ST MILLENNIUM B.C.

1 3/8 in. (26 grams, 36 mm).

Modelled in the half-round with grotesque features and fierce teeth exposed; reverse with low-relief engraved image of Lamashtu advancing holding a trident.

Provenance

From an important collection formed before 1988, London and Geneva.

This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.12253-221916.

Literature

Cf. British Museum, Splendours of Mesopotamia, London, 2011, p.203, cat.180, for similar.

Footnotes

In Babylonian mythology the demon Pazuzu was the son of the god Hanpa. His consort, the demon Lamaštu, carried fever and preyed upon children and pregnant women. She could be neutralised with appropriate spells and amulets, which also protected against other demons. For this reason, women wore an amulet with the effigy of Pazuzu around their necks during pregnancy.

CONDITION

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LOT 1299