Western Asiatic Bronze Horse Statuette

Figure of a worshipper with the hands raised at the waist and standing barefoot on a rectangular plinth, wearing a dress without any visible seams, the embroidery and pattern of the fabric represented by a concentric chevron design; stylised facial features and large almond-shaped eyes, thick twisted roll of fabric holding the hair with a small knot at the top; set on a custom-made stand. 106 grams total, 87 mm including stand



with Mr Modjallal Iradj, France. Acquired by a London, UK gallery, 18 March 1977. Private collection, UK. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.13370-257696.

The Elamite culture was an important civilisation in the ancient Near East that lasted for many centuries, from the 3rd millennium to the 6th century BC. They developed their own style of art, metalwork, and seal designs, as well as their own form of cuneiform writing. Although the Elamites were eventually absorbed into later empires, many aspects of their culture continued to influence the ancient world around them. Objects of this type are understood to be ritual or votive gifts.

Plano-convex in section with incuse animal forms to the underside. 82.8 grams, 66 mm



Private collection. Acquired from a Swiss collection, 2002.

The seal shows stylistic affinity with Akkadian seals representing animals. A few scenes of daily life occur on Akkadian seals, chiefly on the small number illustrating the history of Etana and the eagle. If Akkadian, our seal can be considered very rare.

Frieze depicting a kneeling figure in segmented kilt facing a figure with one arm raised standing back-to-back with a similar figure in a flounced knee-length garment; supplied with a museum-quality impression. 1.36 grams, 10 mm



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