Western Asiatic Stone Macehead

Comprising a discoid body with raised inverted rim, a stylised head of a bird(?) to the top with large ring-and-dot eyes; pierced for suspension; restored. 14.40 grams, 51 mm



From the stock of a former UK antiquarian, acquired at trade fairs and from private collection formed in the 1980s-1990s. Private collection, Europe.

Hollow-formed rhyton with four splayed legs, curved neck with tall mane, loop handle forming the tail; filler hole to the middle of the back, spout to the chest; incised hatched bands to the mane and flank. 2.1 kg, 37 cm



Sakae Art Gallery, Nagoya, Japan, 1982. with Aaron Gallery, acquired from the above. Accompanied by thermoluminescence analysis report no.N121q65 by Oxford Authentication. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.12822-241329.

Amlash terracotta rhytons, significant objects of this culture, are ancient Near Eastern terracotta vessels, dating back to around 1000 BC, often in the shape of animals, particularly zebu bulls. Rhytons were used for holding and drinking wine or other liquids, and characterised by their detailed animal forms and often featuring incised details.

Square in plan and plano-convex in section with tessellated triangles on the dome, horizontal grooves at the sides, incuse octofoil to the underside. 39.7 grams, 31 mm



Ex Mayfair, London, UK, collection, 1980s.