Qajar Gemstone with Kufic Inscription

Amuletic figure of a standing beast with raised rump and curved tail; integral bridle and reins. 17.1 grams, 43 mm



Ex London collection of a deceased collector, 1990s.

Openwork discoid seal with anthropomorphic motif; 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. 57x59x17 mm. This is round, with flat compartmented and open-work face. The back has a stout suspension loop. The design on the face is of a standing creature -- human with bird's head -- and filling shapes. This comes from West Central Asia and dates to c. 2300-1900 B.C. It is a rare design and the seal is in fair condition: some of the edge of the plain outer band is lost.' 53 grams, 58 mm



Ex Signo collection, the property of a West London businessman, formed in the late 1980s-early 1990s; collection number Y-905, academically researched and catalogued by the late Professor Lambert in the early 1990s.

In advancing pose with trunk extended, tail draped along the hindleg; old inked number '27' to underside; supplied with a custom-made stand. 115 grams, 73 mm (251 grams total, 10 cm wide including stand)



Ex European collection since 1970. with Herman Historica, Munich, Germany, Auction 95, no.6031 (Part). Property of a French collector.