A fine Western Asiatic ellipsoid hollow gold bead which features two connected hemispherical parts. The bead is enriched by small repoussé ridges decorating each hemisphere. The bead has been perforated vertically for suspension, with the perforation on each side surrounded by a gold wire frame. Wear to the surface consistent with the age of the bead. Earthy encrustation and minor tarnishing to the gold. Many grand civilisations inhabited the area of the Near East and Western Asia in Antiquity, and their wealth and prosperity is witnessed by the very sophisticated precious metal crafting of jewellery. Gold beads would have been a part of elaborate larger pieces, such as on necklaces or bracelets in the area of Western Asia. Beautiful precious and semi-precious stones would have been added in the larger pieces to signify wealth and social status. These styles were at the centre of Near Eastern and Western Asiatic jewellery production and were later adopted by the Greeks, Etruscans and Romans. Gold necklaces, rings, earrings and bracelets would have been worn in everyday life but also buried with the deceased. Measurements: L 0.7cm X W 0.6cm Weight: 0.46g Provenance: Ex Japanese private collection, deceased, 1970-2010.