Sumerian Bead Necklace

Segmented wheel with U-shaped loop; 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. 46 x 48 x 18. This is roughly round, compartmented, and open work except for the central star. There is a largish circle in the middle, a six-pointed star around it. and a band of 11 oblongs around the outer edge. 6 in three pairs matching the points of the stars [sic]. This is a seal from west central Asia, c. 2300-2000 B.C. It is well preserved and a largish example of its kind. There is a loop handle on the back.' 35.5 grams, 47 mm



From an important London, UK, collection, 1970s. Accompanied by a scholarly note by Professor Wilfrid George Lambert FBA (1926-2011), historian, archaeologist, and specialist in Assyriology and Near Eastern archaeology.

Formed with a tapering round-section shaft and discoid head displaying a repoussé scene composed of a horned animal head over a pair of serpents, mythical hybrid creatures with bird heads and goat legs grappling with serpent-like birds, leaping goat at base, all framed by a pelletted roundel; mounted on a custom-made backing board with fabric covering. 157 grams, 37.5 cm



From a London, UK, gallery, 1980s.

The figure with two pierced ears and painted face detailing, neck ornamentation and arm bangles, continuing to the reverse; mounted on a custom-made display stand. 61 grams total, 13 cm high including stand



Ex UK collection formed in the 1980s. Acquired on the London art market. Accompanied by an Artemission, London SW5, certificate of authenticity.

Terracotta was a favoured material for the production of idols in the ancient Near East, the idols themselves representing deities, particularly goddesses that were connected to fertility. Such idols could even represent worshippers themselves. The Neo-Hittite civilisation, also known as the 'Syro-Hittite' civilisation, existed during the Iron Age in the areas that are now modern day northern Syria and Southern Anatolia. The Hittite empire collapsed around the 12th century B.C., an event which was proceeded by the decline of the Eastern Mediterranean trade networks, together with the fall of the major late Bronze Age cities in the Levant, Anatolia, and the Aegean.