Western Asiatic Granulated Gold Bead Set

Uncleaned, composed of two decoratively twisted hoops, terminals formed as two facing lion (or lioness) heads supporting the bezel, a twisted roundel, in their mouths, central bifacial swivel plaque displaying a menorah flanked by letters 'W-T' on both faces; articulate join between hoops and animal heads. 40 grams, 73 mm wide



Acquired before 1988. From the collection of a deceased collector.

Modelled in the round, the stag standing with legs firmly set, ears and antlers carefully modelled; mounted on a custom-made display stand. 291 grams total, 88 mm including stand



From a collection acquired on the UK art market from various auction houses and collections mostly before 2000. From an important Cambridgeshire estate; thence by descent.

In Anatolia, cult objects in the form of a deer found in the Royal Cemetery of Alaca Höyük, dating to the 3rd millennium B.C., suggest worship of this animal. This continued during the Hittite period where bronze statuettes of this type were widespread. The cult was widespread in the Mediterranean-Aegean world. Even on the remote island of Sardinia, similar cultic and votive statuettes were made.

The scene in a single register presenting a seated figure, possibly a deity, with a raised arm, a worshipper before him with one raised arm; a crouching horned quadruped behind the worshipper, a winged figure above; accompanied by a museum-quality impression. 5.69 grams, 22 mm



From the property of late Mr SM, London, UK, 1969-1999.