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LOT 0269
Syro-Hittite Bronze Female Idol
2ND MILLENNIUM B.C.
3 1/4 in. (17.7 grams, 83 mm).
Modelled in the round standing figure with pinched facial features, transverse collar, applied breasts, arms bent forward, legs close together.
ProvenancePrivate collection of Mr S.A., Switzerland, 1990s, thence by descent.
LiteratureCf. Zahlhaas, G., Prähistorische Staatssammlung, Idole und Votive, München, 1993, p.32, fig.16.
FootnotesThe Syro-Hittite states rose to prominence in northern Syria and southern Anatolia (modern Turkey) following the collapse of the Hittite Empire, during which time many such figures were produced and widely distributed for domestic use. Such figures, later pejoratively referred to as 'idols', depicted deities often carrying or standing with animals. The present figure's arms are positioned as if holding a lamb or other small animal.
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:
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Neo-Assyrian Bronze Two-Piece Belt Buckle with Winged Genii
9th-7th century B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £1,690
Comprising two halves decorated in chased low relief, each half with a standing winged figure dressed in long embroidered tunic, holding a stylised snake(?) in the raised hand, the other hand extended along the wing; the left side with three attachment hooks and the right side with a perforated plaque with two lines of holes providing the possibility of extending the belt. 191 grams total, 80 mm each
Nice bronze patina with small scratches on the surface, antique deformations
Acquired prior to 2000. British private collection of Mr D.M., London, UK. Accompanied by an academic report by Dr Raffaele D’Amato. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.11753-202365.
The genii symbolised both protection and fertility - their role was to safeguard and replenish the ancient kingdom of Assyria and therefore, on a personal buckle, the wearer of the belt. The representation of divine genii upon a belt plaque provided a link with the king and with the royal family, and it could be that such a belt was worn by important dignitaries, although the structure of the belt and its composition exclude the possibility of military use. -
Western Asiatic Stone Butterfly Bead Necklace
4th millennium B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £85
Graduated group of restrung butterfly-shaped beads with labrys-shaped spacers. 29.8 grams, 37 cm
Acquired 1980-2015. Ex Abelita family collection. -
Western Asiatic Silver Ring with Inscription
Circa 15th-16th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £221
Comprising a D-section hoop with a lozenge plaque to the base, scrolled triangular plaque to each shoulder; octofoil bezel with textured field surrounding the central inscription. 4.05 grams, 21.37 mm overall, 16.86 mm internal diameter (approximate size British N, USA 6 1/2, Europe 13.72, Japan 13)
UK private collection before 2000. On the UK art market. Property of a London gentleman.
