Western Asiatic Carnelian Amuletic Pendant

Tongue-shaped in profile with incuse image of an advancing ram beneath a crescent moon, arrow in the field. 4.40 grams, 18.46 mm



Acquired in the mid 1980s-1990s. Private collection, Switzerland, thence by descent. Private collection, since the late 1990s.

The ibex, a wild mountain goat with distinctive curved horns, was a popular and meaningful motif in ancient Near Eastern art. It often appears in Mesopotamian and Persian imagery, where it could symbolise strength, agility, and a connection to the natural and divine worlds. In some contexts, the ibex is linked with fertility and abundance, particularly through its association with flowing water and vegetation. Its elegant form also made it well suited to small-scale objects such as seals, where its image could serve both a decorative and symbolic purpose, reflecting the beliefs and environment of the cultures that produced them.

A matching pair of large black bangles with polychrome highlights. 84 grams total, 94-98 mm



Acquired in the late 1980s-early 1990s. From an important North West London, UK, collection. Property of a West Northamptonshire, UK, gentleman.

Carved anatomical detailing on the body, underside with an advancing horse, and a branch above. 2.45 grams, 15 mm



From a late Warwickshire numismatic collector, his collection formed from the early 1980s.