Bronze Age - Sumerian Lapis Lazuli Bull Pendant > Lot No. 796

Description:
Circa 3rd millennium BC. A deep blue lapis lazuli figurine of a bull, pierced for suspension.

Measurements:
6.20 grams, 22 mm wide.

Condition:
Very fine, complete and undamaged.

References:
Cf. ancient Near Eastern bull cults, see Rice, M. Power of the Bull, London, 1997.

Provenance:
From an old English collection formed in the 1930's. Property of an English gentleman.

Comments notes:
The bull appears to have had associations with royalty, and a harp with bull-head decoration was found in the tomb of Paubi, from circa 2600 BC.

Estimate: £80 - 120 (EUR 100 - 150; USD 130 - 190)

Auction date: Thursday 9th September 2010 at The Swedenborg Hall 20-21 Bloomsbury Way
London WC1A 2TH

Sold for: £77