Loading, please wait...
LOT 1294
Sassanian Carnelian Stamp Seal
3RD-7TH CENTURY A.D.
3/8 in. (1.19 grams, 10 mm).
Composed of a small plano-convex body engraved with a ritualistic figure or symbol to the base; drilled for suspension. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceUK gallery, early 2000s.
LiteratureFor similar symbols and seals see Anavian, H., Habib Anavian Collection, Ancient Near Eastern Cylinder and Stamp Seals from the Early 6th Millennium B.C. to 651 A.D. New York, 1976, nos.423-425.
FootnotesAccording to some scholars, these seals originated as brands for cattle and contain elaborated hereditary notes. According to others they could represent monograms or Neshan (rank badges) or rank insignia. The crescent can be also associated with Zoroastrian shrines.
CONDITIONTimeLine Auctions follows a vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process
AUCTIONS:
TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.
-
Mesopotamian Stone Cylinder Seal with Banquet Scene
3rd-2nd millennium B.C.Estimate: £400 - 600 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £190
In a single register, the scene comprising a seated female figure, possibly a deity, accompanied by an animal at her feet and a tree in the background; four male figures before the female, possibly worshippers and entertainers, two of the figures tête-bêche, with a larger dancing figure behind them holding a lyre-like instrument; accompanied by a museum-quality impression. 3.05 grams, 18 mm
From the property of late Mr SM, London, UK, 1969-1999. Accompanied by an old bag with reference no.V-352. -
Phoenician Bronze Seated Figure Holding an Offering Cup
Circa 6th century B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £1,040
Modelled in the round with tight-fitting robe and carefully detailed tiered hairstyle; right hand raised to support a chalice; peg beneath the feet; mounted on a custom-made display stand. 301 grams total, 11 cm including stand
Acquired on the French art market. From a collection acquired on the UK art market from various auction houses and collections mostly before 2000. From an important Cambridgeshire estate; thence by descent.
Iberian statuettes from 6th century B.C. were produced under the influence of Greeks and Phoenicians. Small votive offerings of priests, priestesses, and deities in bronze, were found everywhere in Spain. The body of these figurines is often reduced to a rectangular plaque, but the head, as in all these types, is of plastic work, a process which reminds the prehistoric terracottas from the Argive Heraeum and elsewhere. The curve of the nose, which gives the face a Semitic appearance, is not accidental, and underlines the Phoenician influence. -
Western Asiatic Garnet-Set Gold Pendant Element
Circa 12th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £1,105
Lozenge-shaped and of box construction, the central field set with nine garnets within raised frames set, the base with wire and chain work, the four corners set with facetted spherical terminals, four suspension loops between each terminal. 11.3 grams, 59 mm
From a private family collection formed in the 1970s.