Description:

**First Time At Auction**

Ancient Near East, Luristan, ca. 1000 BCE. A charming ensemble of 6 bronze bells, all boasting openwork forms surmounted by suspension loops for dangling from animals, likely horses. 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. Beautiful russet and seafoam green patina adorns the surface of each bell, imbuing them with an elegant presentation reminiscent of the ancient world! Size of largest: 1.5" W x 2.5" H (3.8 cm x 6.4 cm)

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

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#134711

  • Condition: Largest has loss to 1 rib and some light bending, but other 5 are intact. All have expected surface wear and rich patina throughout, as well as some earthen deposits and encrustations.

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

Artemis Fine Arts

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