Description:

Ancient Near East, modern day Iran, Luristan, ca. 1000 to 700 BCE. A bronze hollow tubular standard in the form of a "master of animals", here rendered as a rod between the heads and necks of stylized snarling lionesses. This piece connects by a pin to a bell-shaped hollow item possibly used for attachment or placement in an altar. Many of these standards were removed from Luristan in the 1800s and early 1900s without proper archaeological excavation; only two have been scientifically excavated. As a result, their true function is unknown. Suggestions for their interpretation have ranged from the religious - depictions of deities, idols, talismans, etc. - to the utilitarian - parts of chariots or used in funerary rituals. Size: 2.2" W x 9.8" H (5.6 cm x 24.9 cm); 11" H (27.9 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection

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#136182

  • Condition: Small area of corrosion or possibly a casting flaw on the back of one of the animals. Dark patina overall on surface. The object is composed of two pieces which are fused together but still have some movement.

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August 2, 2018 7:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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