Sassanian Silver Pedestal Cup

Bearing an administrative text. 66 grams, 63 mm



Specialised collection of cuneiform texts, the property of a London gentleman and housed in London before 1992. Thence by descent to family members. Examined by Professor Wilfrid George Lambert FBA (1926-2011), historian, archaeologist, and specialist in Assyriology and Near Eastern archaeology, in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The collection is exceptional for the variety of types, including some very rare and well preserved examples.

Engraved with frieze of enigmatic motifs; drilled vertically for suspension. 6.76 grams, 22 mm



From an important London, UK, collection, 1970-1990. Examined by Professor Wilfrid George Lambert FBA (1926-2011), historian, archaeologist, and specialist in Assyriology and Near Eastern archaeology, in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

The lower body formed as slender flutes in relief, concentric rings to the interior, resting on a flaring shallow foot, possibly Parthian. 590 grams, 18.8 cm wide



Acquired on the London art market, 1971-1974. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.11785-206404.

The wealth of the Sassanid court has been confirmed by archaeological excavations that have unearthed shallow vessels, among which bowls forged from precious metals like silver, likely used to drink wine in the palaces and at the court of the Šāhanšāh (King of Kings). The production of silver vessels and dinner objects for the court was highly centralised within the empire. In the 5th and 6th century A.D., this production expanded, creating new shapes, such as pitchers, elliptical bowls and high footed bowls, also used by the middle class. This vessel is continuing the tradition of the vessels in the Arsacid court.