Ancient Near East, northwestern Iran, Luristan, ca. 1000 to 600 BCE. A very interesting piece, a horse bit that has been lost wax cast into the shape of two fantastical, openwork zoomorphic figures along an axis of a narrow iron cuboid. Two curved ends rise from the back of each figure, capped by two round discs. The piece is three parts, displayed as it would have been in use. Ancient Luristan, a region of mountains and plains, is renowned for its highly advanced bronze work, much of which was buried as grave goods. Size: 6.15" L x 5" W x 3.75" H (15.6 cm x 12.7 cm x 9.5 cm)
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. Their horses were their livelihood, and they seem to have ornamented them as beautifully as they ornamented themselves.
Provenance: private Davis collection, Houston, Texas, USA
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#132977
Condition
Iron bar has been stabilized and repaired, as it is heavily oxidized. Bronze fittings have a deep turquoise patina.