Western Asiatic Black Stone Idol

With deep rounded underside, broad sloping shoulder and raised rim to the mouth; two pierced lugs to the shoulder, four applied linear bands to the underside. 505 grams, 17.5 cm wide



From a UK collection formed in the 1980s. Property of an Essex, UK, gentleman.

Plano-convex in section with low-relief Kufic script legend. 0.68 grams, 17 mm



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

Cylinder with standing figures, with restrung red stone bead to each end; accompanied by a copy of 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 Black Stone, 32 x 20 mm. The design shows a row of five standing figures, the first raising one hand over a stand, the other four holding their hands at the waist. All are dressed in long robes to the legs. This is an Akkadian seal, c. 2300-2200 B.C., from Mesopotamia or south-west Iran. It is in good condition, and is a rare type. The engraving is in a rather crude style, but vigorous. The scene is one of worship'; supplied with a museum-quality impression. 22.9 grams total, seal: 32.6 mm



Acquired on the French auction market. Accompanied by a copy of an old scholarly note, typed and signed by W.G. Lambert, late Professor of Assyriology, University of Birmingham, 1992. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.13465-262418.

In the Akkadian seals parallel to the rendition of personalised might are scenes depicting quite realistic action of a divine or more divine characters. Later seals are often representing processions of attendants, worshippers (like here) or scenes of husbandry.