Syro-Hittite Terracotta Statuette of a Deity

Each of six fragments bearing cuneiform text or pictograms to at least one face. 66 grams total, 26-40 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. This small collection is exceptional for the variety of types, including some very rare and well preserved examples.

Featuring curved sides and bottom, scalloped upper edge; median figure in textured hat flanked by two resting camels on a pounced field; applied loop to each upper corner; some old repairs. 90 grams, 17 cm



London, UK gallery 1971-early 2000s. with Bonhams, London, Islamic & India Art sale, circa 2015, p.45, lot 55. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.202353.

Ghurid Dynasty metalwork is poorly represented when compared to the architecture of the period, and the majority of surviving pieces are items of jewellery mostly in Russian museum collections. The sculptural nature of the decoration of this repoussé sheet sets it apart from the more usual output of Iran at this time, recalling the fine silversmithing of the Sasanian period.

Composed of double drilled oval agate beads from the Near East or India with later polished round carnelian beads, restrung. 95 grams, 66 cm long

Fine condition.

Acquired 1980-2015. Ex Abelita family collection.