Description:

Ancient Near East, northwestern Iran, Luristan, ca. 1000 to 700 BCE. A pair of cast bronze horse bits showcasing the artistry of the metalworkers of Luristan. Both are in the form of an ibex, body shown in profile, with large, magnificent horns and a round hole through the center of the body to accommodate an attachment. 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. When they died, they were buried in rock-covered tombs with their metal items like these. Size of one (both are roughly the same size): 3.45" W x 3.2" H (8.8 cm x 8.1 cm)

Provenance: private Los Angeles County, California, USA collection formed over the period between 1980 and 2000

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#122744

  • Condition: Dark patina with mottled turquoise on both surfaces. Form is clear.

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December 20, 2017 7:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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