Description:

**First Time At Auction**

Ancient Near East, northwestern Iran and eastern Turkey, Luristan, ca. 1000 to 600 BCE. A fascinating ensemble of bronze bells - likely used as horse trappings - each of conical form with a suspension loop at the top and spherical baubles hanging below. Incised parallel striations encompass their exteriors. The affluent group in Luristan society that patronized the metalworking industry and purchased decorative items like these were nomadic horsemen. They would travel into towns and purchase bronze and iron objects from craftsmen there. Although these horsemen were pre-literate, we know from the records of the Elamites and other southern neighbors that they were mercenaries in the constant warfare between the Sumerians, Babylonians, Assyrians, and Elamites. Their horses were their livelihood, and we know from scholarship and surviving artifacts - like these horse trappings - that these peoples ornamented their noble steeds as beautifully as they ornamented themselves. Size of largest: 1.4" W x 3.3" H (3.6 cm x 8.4 cm)

Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010

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#134709

  • Condition: Three are missing 2 baubles with losses to suspension loops, but fourth bell is intact. All have expected surface wear. Nice patina and earthen deposits and liberal remains of incised details.

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February 10, 2023 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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