Ancient Central Asia, Bactrian, ca. 3rd to 2nd millennium BCE. A breathtaking bowl, hand-carved from a single contiguous piece of banded agate which presents cream, crimson, burgundy, lime, forest-green, and citrine hues. The thick-rimmed bowl has wide expanding walls which gradually taper towards a narrow base which rests on an integral conical foot. The interior basin is meticulously drilled out and then sanded and polished smooth; traces of the original drill marks are still visible near the bottom of the basin. Polished stone vessels are common grave goods from this time period. Based on ancient evidence, we believe that a small vessel like this probably held something of value for depositing in a tomb. Given their impressive aesthetic qualities as well as the fact that archaeologists have typically found them in temple, grave, and palace sites, dishes like this one must have been regarded as precious objects themselves. Size: 5.1" W x 3.25" H (13 cm x 8.3 cm).
Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection; ex-Dr. Sid Port collection, California, USA, acquired in the 1980s
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#143751
Condition
Repaired from multiple large pieces with small areas of restoration, minor chips, and light adhesive residue along break lines. Minor nicks to rim and foot, with light abrasions across most surfaces. Light earthen deposits throughout. Old inventory label beneath base.