A beautiful, restrung Western Asiatic lapis lazuli necklace, composed of alternating small, flat biconical beads and small metal spacer beads. Five lapis lazuli amulets in the shape of a recumbent quadruped, possibly a lion, are evenly dispersed throughout the necklace, with the biggest hanging at the centre of the necklace as a pendant. Please note this necklace is unclasped and threaded on string. Lapis lazuli was and still is highly regarded in Mesopotamia and the Near East. Ancient rulers and members of the elite showed their high esteem for the stone by often burying themselves with ornaments made partially or entirely from this semi-precious stone. Even before their adoration for this beautiful vibrant stone, its popularity and mining occurred firstly in the Neolithic period, when it was first excavated in the Near East and exported to the Mediterranean area of South Asia. Measurements: Half length 32 cm Provenance: Ex Japanese private collection, deceased, 1970-2010. N.B. Delivery may be longer due to the busier period and we do not guarantee delivery before Christmas. Items paid for after the 19th December will be shipped after the New Year (week commencing on the 5th January 2026). **There will be an additional fee incurred for returned shipments due to buyer’s non-response to customs enquiries and/or unsuccessful delivery attempts.**