Western Asiatic White Stone and Shell Bead Collection

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.

With rosettes arranged in rows; the design consists of rosettes, each composed of one central hole surrounded by six other holes, rosettes are arranged in alternate rows of four and five: four rows of four and four rows of five in total; accompanied by a museum quality impression and a copy of an old scholarly note, typed and signed by W.G. Lambert, late Professor of Assyriology, University of Birmingham, 1970-1993, which states: 'Cylinder Seal of Hematite, 22.5 x 11.5 mm. The condition is very good.' 9.03 grams, 22 mm



From the private collection of a North American lady, formed 1970s-early 1990s, with collection reference no.P44. Accompanied by a copy of a scholarly note, typed and signed by Professor Wilfrid George Lambert dated August 1990 and an old photograph. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.12933-246707.

D-shaped in plan and plano-convex in section with large ellipsoid voids for the eyes, high-relief facial features. 50 grams, 59 mm



Acquired between 1981-1996. Property of a North American collector.