Western Asiatic and Other Terracotta Vessel Group

Biconvex in profile with low flared rim, remains of painted ornament to shoulder. 2.55 kg, 21.8 cm high



Acquired 1980-2015. Ex Abelita family collection.

With short socketted shaft, the plain rectangular blade broadening towards the cutting edge. 460 grams, 15.2 cm



Acquired 1980-2015. Ex Abelita family collection.

Unadorned weapons, especially axes, adzes and picks, were made by Luristan craftsmen for the Elamite warriors using simple clay or stone bivalve moulds, into which a core to form the socket for the shaft was inserted. Typically, the metallic composition consisted of a combination of arsenical bronze and copper, together with a small percentage of lead.

A matched pair of large earrings decorated with pomegranates on the outer edge, the crescentic body divided in transversal grooves representing the abdomen of a bee, with granulation on the inner and outer edge, a horizontal gold wire with circlets to the centre. 23.78 grams total, 38 mm each



From a private family collection formed since the early 19th century, thence by descent. Property of a New Zealand legal professional. 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.12326-223715.

Fruit were generally considered to be a symbol of sensuality, temptation and fertility; the giving and accepting of fruit may be regarded as a symbolic sexual act, or at least a prelude to marriage. It follows naturally that the pomegranate, with its innumerable fleshy seeds symbolising life and fecundity, was an attribute of Aphrodite.