LOT 0246

Western Asiatic Bronze Incense Burner in the Shape of an Eagle

9TH-11TH CENTURY A.D.

4 3/8 in. (430 grams total, 11 cm including stand).

With outstretched wings and erect body, open beak and eyes hollowed to accept inserts, five-feather spread tail and a rectangular socket to the back; mounted on a custom-made display stand.

Béla Hein collection, Paris, France, before 1931.

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 a search certificate number no.12569-232077.

Cf. for parallels Gabrieli, F. & Scerrato, U., Gli Arabi in Italia, Milano, 1989, fig.530; Allan, J.W., The Metalworking Industry in Iran in the Early Islamic Period, volume II, Oxford, 1976, fig.59, for similar incense holder; see also Allan, J.W., Nishapur: Metalwork of the Early Islamic Period, New York, 1982.

Béla Hein (1883-1931) was a prominent dealer and collector of African art in early 20th century Paris. In the early 1920s, he founded a gallery specialising in African art, contemporary sculpture, and a variety of curiosities, including antiquities. Hein's influence extended across the art world, and his collection reflected a keen eye for both historical and aesthetic significance.