Western Asiatic Grey Hardstone Macehead






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Western Asiatic macehead, grey hardstone, circa 3rd–1st millennium BC, H 7.9 cm × W 6 cm, in good condition.
Description from the seller
A fine Western Asiatic ceremonial macehead, carved from beautiful dark grey hardstone speckled with striations. The macehead features a tapered shape, with a convex top leading to a conical body and resting on a flattened base. A cylindrical shaft channel runs vertically through the centre of the piece. The hardstone features an attractive pattern of lighter grey mottling and striations running diagonally along the body. Minor wear and earthy encrustations to the surface. Chipping to the shaft hole.
These types of objects are normally called maceheads. They may have been mounted on a shaft as a symbol of rank, perhaps derivative from a true weapon of similar form. Throughout the ancient world, maceheads varied significantly, and we know of a great number with different styles and decorations. Maceheads may not only have served a purpose in warfare, but also in religious contexts. Indeed, maceheads played an important role as votive offerings in shrines and temples across ancient Mesopotamia.
Measurements: (circa) H 7.9cm x W 6cm
Provenance: Acquired in the 1980s-1990s. Property of a North West London gentleman.
Seller's Story
A fine Western Asiatic ceremonial macehead, carved from beautiful dark grey hardstone speckled with striations. The macehead features a tapered shape, with a convex top leading to a conical body and resting on a flattened base. A cylindrical shaft channel runs vertically through the centre of the piece. The hardstone features an attractive pattern of lighter grey mottling and striations running diagonally along the body. Minor wear and earthy encrustations to the surface. Chipping to the shaft hole.
These types of objects are normally called maceheads. They may have been mounted on a shaft as a symbol of rank, perhaps derivative from a true weapon of similar form. Throughout the ancient world, maceheads varied significantly, and we know of a great number with different styles and decorations. Maceheads may not only have served a purpose in warfare, but also in religious contexts. Indeed, maceheads played an important role as votive offerings in shrines and temples across ancient Mesopotamia.
Measurements: (circa) H 7.9cm x W 6cm
Provenance: Acquired in the 1980s-1990s. Property of a North West London gentleman.
Seller's Story
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The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
