Parthian Agate Gemstone with Bust

Piriform in profile with flared foot, thick ropework collar above the shoulder, socketted rim; repoussé frieze depicting three nude dancing girls in vigorous motion with draped swags of cloth and holding cymbals; between, a peacock, small boy with a vase and another holding a dove; old collector's labels to underside. 481 grams, 18.7 cm



Private collection, 1960s. Accompanied by a report by Professor François de Blois, Affiliated Researcher at the Faculty of Asian and Middle Eastern Studies, University of Cambridge. Accompanied by a positive scientific statement from Striptwist Limited, a London-based company run by historical precious metal specialist Dr Jack Ogden, reference number 170163. Accompanied by an academic report by Dr Raffaele D'Amato. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.12482-229825. This lot has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database, and is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato.

Cylinder with cord and bead handles; accompanied by a copy of an old scholarly note, typed and signed by W.G. Lambert, late Professor of Assyriology, University of Birmingham, 1970-1993, which states: 'Cylinder Seal of lapis Lazuli, 23.5 x 9 mm. The design shows a seated deity to the right, raising one hand, while from the left an introducing goddess leads in a worshipper. The cutting is simple, but is identifiable as from the period of the Third Dynasty of Ur, c. 2100-2000 B.C., coming from southern Mesopotamia or a neighbouring area. The design is worn, but clearly visible. Lapis is a rare stone for this period.'; accompanied by a museum-quality impression. 5.65 grams total, 8.1-23.5 mm



UK private collection, acquired 1980-1983. Accompanied by a copy of a scholarly note, typed and signed by Professor Wilfrid George Lambert in July 1991. This lot has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database, and is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato.

Including globular jars, bowls, vases, a polychrome glazed base and other items. 11.45 kg total, 4-29.5 cm



Ex London, UK, gallery, 1980-1990s. This lot has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database, and is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato.

In Early Bronze Age II Period, the pottery tradition of the previous period, in Holy Land, continues, though with a number of significant changes. The jars can be divided into those with and without necks. Thin walled jars were often done of fine, well-levigated ware.