Ancient Near East, northwestern Iran, Luristan, ca. 1000 to 600 BCE. A beautiful bronze tubular standard in the form of a "master of animals," rendered as a rod between the head and necks of stylized predators - these resemble wolves, while other examples often have lionesses. The piece connects by a pin to a bell-shaped body used for attachment or placement in an altar. A mask-like Janiform face is at the center of the figure's body, and two other animals - perhaps roosters - project outwards from below the arms. 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. Size: 2.5" W x 13.8" H (6.4 cm x 35.1 cm); 17.5" H (44.4 cm) on included custom stand.
For a very similar example, please see "Our Collective Past: A Selection of Objects from Antiquity." Fortuna Fine Arts, Inc., New York, 2006, p. 2, fig. 2.
Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection
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#139812
Condition
Pin between top and bottom components is modern and used for stabilization purposes. Slight bending to overall form, light softening to some finer details, with minor nicks and abrasions to figure, animals, and body. Light earthen deposits as well as fabulous green and brown patina throughout.