Western Asiatic Rock Crystal, Glass and Stone Bead Necklace String

Openwork quatrefoil with triangular loop to the reverse; accompanied by typed and signed note by the late W.G. Lambert, Professor of Assyriology at the University of Birmingham, 1970-1993, which states: 'Stamp Seal of Bronze, 43 x 43 x 19 mm. This is an open-work compartmented seal bearing the shape of the design: a rosette with four petals, with an extra layer around the edge. on the back there is a handle of thick sheet metal in an inverted V-shape. This comes from West Central Asia and dates to c. 2300-2000 B.C. It is an unusual design. The outer rim is dented a little, otherwise it is in good condition.' 26 grams, 44 mm



Ex collection of a late London gentleman, 1990s. Accompanied by an original typed and signed scholarly note by the late W.G. Lambert, Professor of Assyriology at the University of Birmingham, 1970-1993. This lot has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database, and is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato.

Comprising seven circular mounts, each with a repoussé winged lion, depicted in a seated pose with its head turned, pierced thrice through the outer rim. 1.92 grams total, 15 mm each



Private English collection, formed between the late 1970s and early 1990s. Private collection, UK.

Gold held immense significance in the Achaemenid Empire, not only as a symbol of wealth and divine favour but also as a practical medium for art, currency, and royal regalia. It was used in architectural decoration, lavish court objects, jewellery, and ceremonial ware, often reflecting the empire’s vast wealth and cosmopolitan reach. Among the prominent motifs in Achaemenid art is the lion-griffin—a mythical creature combining the body of a lion with the wings of an eagle. This powerful image, frequently seen in gold appliqués, seals, and metalwork, conveyed themes of imperial power, protection, and control over both terrestrial and celestial realms. The lion-griffin stood as an emblem of dominance and guardianship, befitting the grandeur of Persia’s imperial ideology.

Plano-convex in section with incised cuneiform inscription to the flat face. 6.8 grams, 13 mm



with Archaeologia, Switzerland, before 1983. Ex private North American collection. London private collection, 2016.