Western Asiatic Stamp Seal with Winged Man

Modelled in the round, front and back paws formed as a one block, pierced lug to the back. 57.5 grams, 57 mm



with a London, UK gallery, 1971-early 2000s.

The lion was one of the most widely used symbols in Seljuk culture. They frequently used the word aslan, meaning lion, in the names of their Sultans and statesmen, such as Alparslan, "brave lion," Aslanshah, "lion king," and Aslandogmus, "lion born." Four of the Seljuk Sultans were named Kilicarslan, which combines the words for a sword and lion, and the interest in lions is clearly reflected in the art and architecture of the Seljuk period. Lion-head water spouts are to be found at a number of caravanserais, and lion statues guarded the portals to the city of Cardak Han in Anatolia, as well as carved onto the walls of the palace at Incir Han. The lion is also to be found on the coins of Sultan Giyaseddin II.

Rectangular layout with two large panels, liquid gold blocks with nastaliq text, left: mosque in elevation with the body formed from Kufic text, right: city in plan with architectural features and black Kaaba; geometric frames and text, scenes from Mecca; verso with cursive presentation text. 50 grams, 56 cm wide



From an important family collection started in the late 1950s. Property of a West London, UK, gentleman.

Comprising a quantity of mixed beads in lapis lazuli, shell, carnelian, agate, glass, ceramic and others. 87 grams total, 3-19 mm



UK gallery, early 2000s.

There are mainly two types of beads, drawn beads (when the tubes are cut in a short segments, which are usually agitated over heat to smooth off the sharp edges) or wound beads (made by wrapping molten glass around a rock, stick or wire). Once the bead is formed, it can be further pressed or paddled into shape, placed in a mould, or decorated with other colours of glass.