Details

LOT 0233

Syrian Haematite Cylinder Seal with Worshipping Figures

CIRCA 1900-1700 B.C.

5/8 in. (7.5 grams, 18 mm).

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 Hematite, 19 x 11.5 mm. The major part of the design consist of a seated figure, no doubt a god, holding up one hand in greeting to a standing figure, meant as a human worshipper, who similarly hold up one hand. Between them is a table with elegant legs on which rests a pile of breads. Above this is a motif probably intended as a stylized bull's head. The minor part of the design consists of a row of five walking men, the first raising one hand, the last carrying a crook over his shoulder. This is a Syrian seal, c. 1900-1700 B.C. and though the stone is somewhat worn, the design is fully clear.'; supplied with a museum-quality impression. [No Reserve]

Provenance

UK private collection, acquired 1980-1983.

Accompanied by a copy of a scholarly note, typed and signed by Professor Wilfrid George Lambert in August 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.