Description:

Near East/western Asia, Luristan, ca. 1000 BCE. A cast bronze finial in the form of two long-necked ibexes whose bodies stand upright, their front limbs wrapped around each other, their long legs stretched out underneath them. Their heads are capped by impressive antlers that stretch away from the center of the piece, broadening its upper scope. The animals' pose is strange, almost anthropomorphic, and suggestive of magical origins. The true function of finials like this one - often called "master of animals" - 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: 3.75" W x 6.5" H (9.5 cm x 16.5 cm); 9.75" H (24.8 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection

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#137176

  • Condition: Some bending to form, with one of the ibexes leaning a little further back than he did when first made. Pleasing dark patina on surface.

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September 27, 2018 7:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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