A Published Neo-Assyrian Agate Cylinder Seal, Neo-Assyrian Period, ca. 883 - 612 BCE
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Expertly carved in fine detail, this cylinder seal features a dynamic mythological scene anchored by a striding bearded king, his arm raised in a commanding gesture. At his feet is a running bull, which represents royal strength and divine favor. Opposite the king stands a winged, eagle-headed genius, an apkallu or protective spirit, extending a vessel, likely for ritual libation. Behind the king, a recumbent long-necked animal, possibly a gazelle or ibex, lies beneath a stylized Tree of Life, with a bird perched among its branches.
The Tree of Life motif, central in Mesopotamian religious symbolism, represents divine order, fertility, and the sustaining structure of the cosmos. The imagery is bordered above and below by neatly drilled dot bands. The seal retains traces of its original bronze pin, still embedded through the central perforation, a rare survival.
Published: Sotheby's New York, June 23, 1989 lot #9
Medium: Red-Brown Agate
Dimensions: Length: 3.1 cm (1.22 inches)
Condition: Complete, with cracking to the body that has been professionally stabilized, overall in very good condition. A rare and exceptional example.
Provenance: Iraj Lak Collection, London, ca. 1974–1984. Published: Sotheby’s New York, June 23, 1989, lot 9 (accompanied by extract from auction catalogue).
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Furthermore, we conduct due diligence to ensure the item, to the best of our knowledge, has not been illegally obtained from an excavation, architectural monument, public institution, or private property. Wherever possible, reference is made to existing collections or publications.Wherever possible, reference is made to existing collections or publications.
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