Ancient Near East, Northwestern Iran, Luristan, ca. 1200 to 800 BCE. An intriguing cast-bronze standard finial in the form known as the "master of animals." The composition depicts an abstract anthropomorphic figure standing with broad hips and openwork legs while throttling a pair of stylized predators - perhaps griffins, roosters, or lionesses - by their necks. The figure's lower half and the haunches of both animals merge together along the lower half to form the openwork hafting shaft. Size: 1.2" L x 2.75" W x 5.3" H (3 cm x 7 cm x 13.5 cm); 6.125" H (15.6 cm) on included custom stand.
Many of these standards were removed from Luristan in the 1800s and early 1900s without proper archaeological excavation; only two have been scientifically excavated. As a result, their true function is unknown. Suggestions for their interpretation have ranged from the religious - depictions of deities, idols, talismans, etc. - to the utilitarian - parts of chariots or used in funerary rituals.
Cf. P.R.S. Moorey. "Ancient Persian Bronzes in the Adam Collection", nos. 80-83.
Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-estate of Dina Recanati (1928-2021), New York, New York, USA
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#187357
Condition
Professional repair and restoration to tops of all 3 legs on each side below animal rumps, with resurfacing and overpainting along new material and break lines. Abrasions and small nicks in scattered areas, otherwise in nice condition. Nice preservation to most finer details, and great patina throughout.