A finely cast bronze Achaemenid carinated vessel, likely a bowl, featuring a wide, open mouth. The body is circular in shape with convex walls, which taper at the shoulder to create a carinated effect. Above, the vessel flares towards an everted rim. The bowl sits on a rounded base with a central indent, possibly used for an easier grip on the bowl while pouring to make offerings or libations. Both the interior and exterior walls are unadorned. Green patina and earthly encrustations to the surface. The Achaemenid Empire rose from a strong military and political background which differed to the traditional Mesopotamian kingdoms. At its peak, it had the most expansive territory in history, on account of which it embraced a fusion of various languages, religions, and cultures. Instead of destroying all the astonishing achievements in art created by Mesopotamian ancestors, the Achaemenid Empire preserved and inherited the traditional practices of Mesopotamian art, adapting them to their own aesthetic taste. Measurements (circa): W 13.2cm x H 4.9cm Provenance: Ex London collection of Near Eastern objects, pre 1996.