Large Lapis Lazuli Egg, Afghanistan, late 20th century
Polished lapis lazuli on a circular wooden base. Carved to an ovoid form. Blue matrix with approximately horizontal banding, whitish-grey calcite-rich areas and gold-coloured pyrite flecks. Polished surface with scattered fine scratches. Several long, partly branching cracks extend from the apex across the sides. One side with a larger dark grey area of differing matt surface texture, approx. 1 × 3 cm, probably a fill. Base with abrasions and scattered losses to the surface finish. Height of egg approx. 33 cm; height of base approx. 4 cm.
Condition: II -
Polished lapis lazuli on a circular wooden base. Carved to an ovoid form. Blue matrix with approximately horizontal banding, whitish-grey calcite-rich areas and gold-coloured pyrite flecks. Polished surface with scattered fine scratches. Several long, partly branching cracks extend from the apex across the sides. One side with a larger dark grey area of differing matt surface texture, approx. 1 × 3 cm, probably a fill. Base with abrasions and scattered losses to the surface finish. Height of egg approx. 33 cm; height of base approx. 4 cm.
Condition: II -
