Ancient Near East, Luristan (modern day Iran), ca. 1000 to 700 BCE. An impressively preserved, bronze standard in the style of a "master of animals" presenting a pair of confronting zoomorphs standing upon their hind legs atop a ring-shaped plinth and flanking an anthropomorphic head. Each animal displays an elongated, arched neck supporting an elaborate, stylized head, a crested mane, bowed legs, and a curled tail, as a downward-facing, leonine figure lies on the torso. Size: 2.2" W x 4.7" H (5.6 cm x 11.9 cm)
Many standards like this one 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. Fascinatingly, although they are all similar in theme, each one seems to have individualized elements, so that no two standards are identical.
Provenance: private Denver, Colorado, USA collection; ex-John B. Kendrick II collection, Denver, Colorado, USA, acquired 1965 to 1990; John B. Kendrick II, son of John B. Kendrick, former Wyoming Governor and US Senator 1930s
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#172692
Condition
Head of one animal reattached at lower neck area. Otherwise, excellent with remarkably preserved detail and lovely patina.