A fine restrung Western Asiatic necklace comprised of lapis lazuli beads. The body of the necklace is made up of large, oval rounded beads separated by small, tubular spacer beads, and finished with a series of large, rougher tubular beads at either terminus of the necklace. Each bead displays a unique hue, consistent with the natural colouration of the stone, and size, consistent with this period of jewellery production. The necklace is in good condition, with signs of wear and earthy encrustations, consistent with the object’s age. The necklace has been fitted with a modern for wear. Please note that this necklace has not been professionally tied. Lapis lazuli was and still is highly regarded in Mesopotamia and the Near East. The burials of ancient rulers and members of the elite, often filled with lapis lazuli ornaments, demonstrate the high esteem of this material across cultures. Such evidence dates back to the Neolithic period, when this material first began to be excavated in the Near East and exported around the Mediterranean. Measurements (circa): Beaded half length 26.5cm Provenance: Ex Japanese private collection, deceased, 1970-2010.