Western Asiatic Bifacial Stone Stamp Seal

With drinking scenes; accompanied by an old scholarly note, typed and signed by W.G. Lambert, late Professor of Assyriology, University of Birmingham, 1970-1993, which states: 'Cylinder Seal of Translucent Greenstone / 31 x 12 mm. The engraved area is divided into two registers by a double line. Above is a drinking scene: two seated drinkers, each with a large ot of beer, and between the pots a standing servant. Below is a contest scene: two crossed lions molest each a horned animal. The horned animal on the left is upended, and is succoured by a hero. This comes from Mesopotamia and dates to c. 2400-2200 B.C. It is nicely engraved and in excellent state of preservation.' 8.09 grams, 31 mm



Academically researched and catalogued by the late Professor Lambert in the early 1990s. From a collection acquired from various auction houses in the UK. From the estate of Mr R.W., a private Wiltshire, UK, collector; thence by descent. Accompanied by an original typed and signed scholarly note by the late W.G. Lambert, Professor of Assyriology at the University of Birmingham, 1970-1993.

Comprising a slender hoop with baluster detailing to the shoulders, box bezel of six radiating points with seed pearls between, concentric bands of filigree surrounding the central cell with turquoise-coloured glass cabochon; replaced seed pearls on modern wire. 6.77 grams, 29.16 mm overall, 20.13 mm internal diameter (approximate size British T 1/2, USA 9 3/4, Europe 21.89, Japan 21)



Private USA collection. Acquired from the Alexander Gallery, New York, USA, in the early 2000s.

Including gladiator figurine, model stag, petronel, barrel-shaped bead and other items. 287 grams total, 27-85 mm



From a collection acquired on the UK art market from various auction houses and collections mostly before 2000. From an important Cambridgeshire estate; thence by descent.