Western Asiatic Gilt Bronze Horse Padlock

Discoid in plan with a lentoid cross-section, bearing dense text to one face. 103 grams, 70 mm



From an important collection formed before 1988.

The figure with two pierced ears and painted face detailing, neck ornamentation and arm bangles, continuing to the reverse; mounted on a custom-made display stand. 61 grams total, 13 cm high including stand



Ex UK collection formed in the 1980s. Acquired on the London art market. Accompanied by an Artemission, London SW5, certificate of authenticity.

Terracotta was a favoured material for the production of idols in the ancient Near East, the idols themselves representing deities, particularly goddesses that were connected to fertility. Such idols could even represent worshippers themselves. The Neo-Hittite civilisation, also known as the 'Syro-Hittite' civilisation, existed during the Iron Age in the areas that are now modern day northern Syria and Southern Anatolia. The Hittite empire collapsed around the 12th century B.C., an event which was proceeded by the decline of the Eastern Mediterranean trade networks, together with the fall of the major late Bronze Age cities in the Levant, Anatolia, and the Aegean.

Comprising cylindrical lapis lazuli, and assorted other beads of different origins including Venetian glass. 107 grams total, 8-34 mm

Fine condition.

Acquired in the 1980s-1990s. Previously with Mansour Gallery, London W1. Property of a North West London gentleman.