Ancient Silk Road and Near Eastern Stone Zoomorphic Amulet Group, 27CD
This group of four pierced stone animal amulets includes a recumbent stag, a feline beast, a stylized seated quadruped, and a winged avian creature. These miniature talismans were designed to be suspended from cords or necklaces. Within Near Eastern and Silk Road belief systems, each animal carried its own protective meaning: the stag symbolised swiftness and safe passage, felines guarded against harm, and birds represented spiritual messengers and transition. They are carved in a simplified, folk-style manner with rounded bodies and minimal incised detail to mark features and texture. The stones show varied earthy tones, heavy burial patina, surface erosion, mineral encrustation and faded residual pigment, consistent with long interment. All examples are drilled for suspension. Dimensions: 5 cm x 4 cm; total 4 pieces.
Condition
All lots offered are sourced from a private estate and sold "as is, where is". Age, wear, restoration, losses and imperfections are typical characteristics of antique works of art. Colour designations of jade are purely descriptive; they are not verified mineral identifications. No gemological or mineralogical testing has been carried out to confirm the jade or stone type. Any stated dynasty or period attribution is provided for reference only. Bidders must satisfy themselves regarding age, material and authenticity. The absence of a reference to a defect does not imply the lot is free from damage or restoration. No warranty, express or implied, is provided.
This group of four pierced stone animal amulets includes a recumbent stag, a feline beast, a stylized seated quadruped, and a winged avian creature. These miniature talismans were designed to be suspended from cords or necklaces. Within Near Eastern and Silk Road belief systems, each animal carried its own protective meaning: the stag symbolised swiftness and safe passage, felines guarded against harm, and birds represented spiritual messengers and transition. They are carved in a simplified, folk-style manner with rounded bodies and minimal incised detail to mark features and texture. The stones show varied earthy tones, heavy burial patina, surface erosion, mineral encrustation and faded residual pigment, consistent with long interment. All examples are drilled for suspension. Dimensions: 5 cm x 4 cm; total 4 pieces.
Condition
All lots offered are sourced from a private estate and sold "as is, where is". Age, wear, restoration, losses and imperfections are typical characteristics of antique works of art. Colour designations of jade are purely descriptive; they are not verified mineral identifications. No gemological or mineralogical testing has been carried out to confirm the jade or stone type. Any stated dynasty or period attribution is provided for reference only. Bidders must satisfy themselves regarding age, material and authenticity. The absence of a reference to a defect does not imply the lot is free from damage or restoration. No warranty, express or implied, is provided.
