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LOT 0828
Tel Brak Type Alabaster Eye Idol
CIRCA 3RD MILLENNIUM B.C.
1 5/8 in. (33.5 grams, 43 mm).
A Tel Brak type creamy alabaster anthropomorphic eye idol, possibly of figurative female form, carved with a bell-shaped body, two 'breasts', remains of openwork 'eyes' above.
ProvenanceAcquired 1969-1999.
London collection of the late Mr S.M., thence by descent.
A classic artefact type from ancient Mesopotamia. Likely hand-carved using drills and string cutting. Eye idols were so named in the 1930s by the British archaeologist Max Mallowan. Whilst excavating a mound called Tel Brak, he discovered hundreds of anthropomorphic items of similar form, thus naming the mound 'Temple of the Eyes'.
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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LOT 0828
Tel Brak Type Alabaster Eye Idol
Estimate £250 - 350€290 - 410 (for guidance only)$340 - 470 (for guidance only)
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Fine condition.
Ex UK art market, 1970s. Property of a London gentleman. -
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