Western Asiatic Stone Cylinder Seal Group

An eagle-shaped stamp seal with a loop on the reverse, accompanied by an old scholarly note, typed and signed by W.G. Lambert, late Professor of Assyriology, University of Birmingham, 1970-1993, which states: 'Stamp Seal of Bronze, 27 x 26.5 x 10.5mm. This has the shape of the thing depicted, with a flat face, convex back rising to the middle where a handle of inverted U-shape with three grooves over it is mounted. The design, which is compartmented, shows an eagle in heraldic pose: head sideways at the top with beak raised, spread wings below, and spread tail-feathers at the bottom. This comes from west central Asia and dates to c. 2300-2000 B.C. It is a most attractive piece and in very good condition -- the metal has been conserved -- save for slight damage to the beak of the bird.' 10.2 grams, 26 mm



Acquired in the late 1980s-early 1990s. Ex property of a West London businessman. Academically researched and catalogued by the late Professor Lambert in the early 1990s. Accompanied by a copy of a scholarly report, numbered R-774, typed and signed by Professor Wilfrid George Lambert.

Fragment with incuse frieze depicting a presentation scene with bull-man facing, gripping a rampant lion, storm-god in conical hat holding a calf towards a standing figure in tiered robes; supplied with impressions. 10.9 grams, 19 mm



From the S. Negev desert, Israel. From the private collection of Mr Brian Edwards, New Malden, Surrey, UK, formed from the late 1970s-early 1980s; thence by descent. Accompanied by an old handwritten information card.

Conical in profile with ring foot; glazed inner face with reserved cross and panels of calligraphic text; text to underside inside foot; old collectors' labels to sidewall. 142 grams, 13.8 cm



with Christie's, London, Islamic Manuscripts, Miniatures, and Works of Art, 10 October 1989, no.485. Private collection, London.