Western Asiatic Silver Decorated Torc

Rectangular carved furniture panel with raised frame above and below the central figure modelled in the half-round; the figure an advancing gryphon with head raised and wings spread, hair falling in three locks to the shoulder, tail raised; the wing with raised rims to the feathers forming cells to accept an inlay in contrasting colour; remains of tenons above and below; Phoenician style; mounted on a custom-made stand. 274 grams total, 10 cm wide including stand



Ex Florida collection, purchased from Kelekian, New York, prior to 1970. Acquired by the current owner from the above. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.11971-209611.

The figure is shown with the head raised; the example in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, which is very similar, is eating the flowers of a tiered papyrus plant. Many such plaques were manufactured in workshops at Nimrud, but some may have been plundered from the treasuries of defeated enemies.

With broad everted rim, painted with brown and ochre bands of varying width with bosses to centre. 651 grams, 16.8 cm wide



Acquired 1980-2015. Ex Abelita family collection.

Model horses each with splayed legs and a stub to the rump (to accept a rider figure?). 52.4 grams total, 34-40 mm



Private collection formed in the 1990s. Acquired from a central London gallery. Property of an Essex gentleman.