Parthian Lead Wine Ewer with Ram Finial

Ancient Near East, Parthian, ca. 1st to 3rd century CE. An impressive wine ewer presenting an attractive form and a ram's head finial/spout, comprised of heavy lead. The vessel presents with a gadrooned voluminous body rising from a pedestal foot, with a tall pouring spout on one side, a curved tubular handle joining neck to shoulder and presenting a spiraled lower terminal and a knob-like form at the upper end, and finally, the piece de resistance, a tall neck of a contiguous, bulbed form rising to a ram head with a conical fill spout presenting a rolled rim above. The ram is remarkable, with incredibly long curled horns, pointed ears, almond-shaped eyes with delineated pupils, and a prominent snout delineated with flaring nostrils and an open mouth. A wonderful vessel, replete with impressive artistry, meaningful iconography, and marvelous patina that has developed over the ages! Measures 12 1/2"H x 6"W. Size: 6.25" W x 12.375" H (15.9 cm x 31.4 cm)

The ram was a symbol of virility and masculinity that continued to be important through Classical times and even beyond. In fact, Hermes/Mercury was oftentimes accompanied by a ram to symbolize fertility.

Provenance: private Hawaii USA collection; ex-private Ibrahimi collection, California, USA, 2004

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#107341
Condition Report: Rim of fill spout presents with some bending and cracks. Nicks/tears to periphery of horns as shown. Cracks and areas of separation to bulb forms of the vessel's neck. Indentations to periphery of the pedestal base. Some stains and deposits on surface. Wonderful age patina.