Middle Eastern Bronze Master of Animals Standard Finial - 9th-6th century BC. The bronzes of Middle Eastern are one of the most impressive facets of the Persian Empire, their mastery and variety, as well as the good condition in which they have arrived, have made them one of the archaeological evidences of this culture. The Master of the Animals was a supernatural protector of game, the ruler of the forest, and the guardian of the entire animal kingdom. He is depicted as a human figure standing between the heads, necks, and stylised bodies of zoomorphic creatures presented in profile. The figure’s grasp on the animals has been interpreted by some as a sign of control. The precise function of objects like this is unknown, and remains one of the mysteries of antiquity. Suggestions range from the religious – depictions of deities, idols, talismans, etc. – to the utilitarian – adornments for chariots or articles used in funerary rituals. Provenance: Purchased by the current owner to an English gallery. Former private collection A.D. (UK; 1990s). Attached import certificate from Spain. The Supplier warrants that he obtained this lot legally. Provenance statement seen by Catawiki. Important information. The seller guarantees that he is entitled to ship this lot. The seller will take care that any necessary permits will be arranged. The seller will inform the buyer about this if this takes more than a few days. Important: For destinations out of Spanish territory: all our objects will be shipped after obtaining CERTIFICATE OF EXPORTATION by Ministry of Culture of Spain. We inform our clients that it may take between 4-8 weeks.