Description:

Near East, Luristan, Pre-Iran, Elamite Empire, ca. 2000 to 1500 BCE. An impressively detailed head of an idol representing a warrior or warrior god, and comprised of terracotta, as the ancients recognized how ideal this medium was for sensitive modeling and delineating details with appliqued coils and filets and incised markings. The visage of this head is fashioned with a projecting nose, elaborate coiffure/helmet of applied filets, a pierced face suggesting facial hair and/or a skin condition, and round eyes with pierced pupils. Custom stand. Size: 1.5" H (3.8 cm); 2.5" H (6.4 cm) on stand

A rare example of a miniature if not near miniature scale, delineated in a charming schematic style. Despite its diminutive size, the presence of this piece is quite impressive. The blue-green hues remaining on its surface lead one to wonder whether the piece was believed to possess apotropaic effects, as blue-green glazed stones and blue-green faience carved and sculpted miniatures in the ancient Near East and Egypt were believed to possess protective powers.

Provenance: Ex- California Museum of Ancient Art, Ex Wright collection, London 1985

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#120956

  • Condition: A fragment with minor surface wear but quite a strong depiction.

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July 11, 2017 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
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$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
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