A fine Western Asiatic terracotta chalice. The vessel features a cylindrical stem with a concave base which expands into a wide, shallow body with a flattened, everted rim. The terracotta is unglazed, highlighting the natural colourations of the material, now uneven due to ageing. Signs of ageing such as earthly encrustations to the surface, indentations, pitting and scratches. A chip to the rim of the chalice and some smaller chips to the foot. Ancient Near Eastern artistic production is characterised by finely potted, high fired terracotta vessels, usually enriched by dark pigmented geometric or zoomorphic decorations. Such vessels would have been produced to store food, but also as burial goods to be placed with the deceased in the tomb. Although the first examples of Ancient Western Asiatic pottery production display simple shapes and stylised decorative motives, terracotta wares evolved, embracing aesthetics driven by all the cultures which entered into contact with the Near East. Measurements: W 14.3cm x H 8cm Provenance: Ex London Collection, formed between 1990-present. 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.**