Western Asiatic Mixed Agate and Carnelian Bead Group

Modelled in the round standing figure with pinched facial features, transverse collar, applied breasts, arms bent forward, legs close together. 17.7 grams, 83 mm



Private collection of Mr S.A., Switzerland, 1990s, thence by descent.

The Syro-Hittite states rose to prominence in northern Syria and southern Anatolia (modern Turkey) following the collapse of the Hittite Empire, during which time many such figures were produced and widely distributed for domestic use. Such figures, later pejoratively referred to as 'idols', depicted deities often carrying or standing with animals. The present figure's arms are positioned as if holding a lamb or other small animal.

Matched pair, each with radiating granulated triangular plaques and large granule clusters. 20.34 grams total, 62 mm each



From a late Japanese specialist collector, 1970-2000s.

Cylindrical with waisted profile and rounded underside, inner with central tube and four radiating partitions; band of hatched triangles flanking herringbone and ring-and-dot motifs. 753 grams, 11 cm wide



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.