Lot 42
Ancient Near East, northwestern Iran and southeastern Turkey, Luristan, ca. 1000 to 600 BCE. A fine bronze horse bit comprised of 2 zoomorphs linked via a lateral bar with suspension loop terminals for attaching to the reins. Each of the fantastical animals presents a tubular, curved body with a trio of openwork circles at the center, a flared foot at one end, and a projecting snout with perky ears and bulging eyes at the other. Size: 5.6" L x 6.5" W x 1.5" H (14.2 cm x 16.5 cm x 3.8 cm); 4.3" H (10.9 cm) on included custom stand.
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 they seem to have ornamented them as beautifully as they ornamented themselves.
Provenance: private Denver, Colorado, USA collection; ex-John B. Kendrick II collection, Denver, Colorado, USA, acquired 1965 to 1990; John B. Kendrick II was that son of John B. Kendrick, Wyoming governor and US senator
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Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.
#172684
- Condition: Surface wear as shown. Otherwise, intact and excellent with verdant green patina and heavy earthen encrustations.
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