Description:

Ancient Near East / Central Asia, Anatolia, ca. 3rd to 2nd millennium BCE. An intriguing abstract zoomorphic idol, hand-carved from jet-black stone and polished to an incredible luster. The item exhibits a bulbous body with a pinched upper periphery, a pair of biconically drilled suspension holes, two shallow 'eyes' situated within raised semicircular sockets, a triangular lower body with a pair of lateral protrusions, and a knob-shaped 'snout.' The overall form of the idol appears to represent the head of an animal, perhaps a bull with a thick snout, a ram with curved horns, or an elephant with a lengthy trunk and protruding tusks. The perforations on top suggest this idol was worn as a ritual pendant, a belt accessory, or an ornament for a horse or wealthy individual. Size: 3.25" W x 5.3" H (8.3 cm x 13.5 cm); 6.5" H (16.5 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: ex-Jens Rid collection, Germany, acquired in the 1980s

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#152779

  • Condition: Minor abrasions and nicks to body, peripheries, and verso, with light encrustations, otherwise intact and near choice. Light earthen deposits and smooth surface texture throughout.

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August 13, 2020 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000