Ur III Terracotta Cuneiform Tablet Fragment

An eagle-shaped stamp seal with a loop on the reverse, 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, 27 x 26.5 x 10.5mm. This has the shape of the thing depicted, with a flat face, convex back rising to the middle where a handle of inverted U-shape with three grooves over it is mounted. The design, which is compartmented, shows an eagle in heraldic pose: head sideways at the top with beak raised, spread wings below, and spread tail-feathers at the bottom. This comes from west central Asia and dates to c. 2300-2000 B.C. It is a most attractive piece and in very good condition -- the metal has been conserved -- save for slight damage to the beak of the bird.' 10.2 grams, 26 mm



Acquired in the late 1980s-early 1990s. Ex property of a West London businessman. Academically researched and catalogued by the late Professor Lambert in the early 1990s. Accompanied by a copy of a scholarly report, numbered R-774, typed and signed by Professor Wilfrid George Lambert.

Carved in the round with indented nostrils and mouth, domed eyes, horns spread above the ears; mounted on a custom-made stand. 170 grams total, bull: 34 mm, 89 mm high including stand



Acquired on the American (?) art market. Private collection, London, UK.

Comprising: frieze with profile advancing horse and birds above; scene with standing warrior in plumed helmet advancing with one arm raised, holding a weapon, grasping the stem of a sapling with leaping lion behind; running horse with sun and moon above; procession of tall robed figures and small kneeling figure between, chipped; fragment with deeply cut bird-heads and other items; each supplied with a museum-quality impression. 4.2 grams total, 10-15 mm



From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s.