Persian Achaemenid Gold Repousse Pendant Lions

Ancient Near East, Achaemenid Persian Empire, ca. 550 to 330 BCE. A gorgeous gold pendant with repousse lions and a carnelian stone set in the center. The 83% gold sheet is hammered to a disc shape then molded in repousse with two couchant lions in profile surrounding the central boss. The lions are delightfully detailed, with their jaws open in snarls revealing their sharp teeth, manes and bodies stippled with hairs. They are contained within a slightly raised border that encircles the periphery. The central boss is in high relief with a circular bezel containing a flat and polished carnelian stone. At the top is a suspension loop folded from the frontside to verso. This piece is displayed in a modern paperboard case with a magnetic clasp. Lions were a powerful symbol in Achaemenid art and were heavily featured in royal iconography. Size of pendant: 2" L x 1.75" Diameter (5.1 cm x 4.4 cm); case: 4" L x 1.25" W x 4" H (10.2 cm x 3.2 cm x 10.2 cm); gold quality 83%; silver quality: 13%; weight: 3.5 grams

For a similar collection of gold Achaemenid pieces featuring lions in a similar pose, please see the Brooklyn Museum, accession number 70.142.11.

This piece has been searched against the Art Loss Register database and has been cleared. The Art Loss Register maintains the world's largest database of stolen art, collectibles, and antiques.

Provenance: private Toronto, Ontario, Canada collection; ex-David and Henry Anavian Family collection, acquired in Iran in the 1970s; ex-Sumer Gallery, New York City, New York, USA

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Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.

#166935
Condition Report: Very fine and choice condition. Minor indentations and bending of form. Some dark toning and mineral deposits on both sides. Minor scratch to carnelian stone. Displayed in modern case.