Western Asiatic Dark Grey Striated Hardstone Ceremonial Macehead






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Western Asiatic ceremonial macehead carved from dark grey striated hardstone, ellipsoid in shape with a vertical shaft hole, about 6 cm wide and 4 cm high, dating to circa 3rd–1st millennium BC and in good condition; authentic/original, acquired in 2000 from a private collection with provenance to a North West London gentleman.
Description from the seller
A Western Asiatic ceremonial macehead, carved from black hardstone. The macehead has an ellipsoid shape which is widest in the middle and tapers towards two flattened ends. There is a shaft channel running vertically through the centre of the piece. The hardstone displays different hues of grey and black with natural striations of beige and white. Some scratches and wear visible to the surface as consistent with age. Chipping around the shaft hole. Earthy encrustations throughout.
These types of objects are normally called mace heads. 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) W 6cm x H 4cm
Provenance: Acquired in the 1980s-1990s. Property of a North West London gentleman.
Seller's Story
A Western Asiatic ceremonial macehead, carved from black hardstone. The macehead has an ellipsoid shape which is widest in the middle and tapers towards two flattened ends. There is a shaft channel running vertically through the centre of the piece. The hardstone displays different hues of grey and black with natural striations of beige and white. Some scratches and wear visible to the surface as consistent with age. Chipping around the shaft hole. Earthy encrustations throughout.
These types of objects are normally called mace heads. 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) W 6cm x H 4cm
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.
