BEAUTIFUL BRONZE ACHAEMENID RIBBED PHIALE VESSEL

600-330 BC. Western Asiatic, Achaemenid period. This bronze phiale or shallow bowl comprises a flaring rim, incurved walls and flattened base. Extensive repoussé decoration comprises a domed central rondel surrounded by alternating petal shaped bosses. Phiales were used for pouring libations to the gods as well as during feasting. The Achaemenid Empire (the first Persian empire) was an ancient empire founded by Cyrus the Great and stretching from the Balkans and Eastern Europe to the Indus Valley and covering 5.5 million square kilometers at its height. This empire is also famous for being the antagonist of the Greek city states during the Greco-Persian wars. As well as fierce warriors, the Achaemenid empire produced fabulous works of art and craftsmanship, such as this bowl. Excellent condition, beautiful patina. Provenance: From an old British collection of Asian Art formed in the 1990s on the UK and European art market. Size: L:30mm / W:175mm ; 245g