A fine Near Eastern bronze weight in the shape of a bird, possibly a duck. The animal is modelled in the round, with a curved beak, rounded head and body, and a fan-shaped tail. The base is slightly flattened. Earthly encrustations and patination to the surface. Ancient Near East traded with many different regions, exporting different types of goods, and sets of standard weight became essential tools in conducting businesses. The weights themselves were usually made of more substantial materials such as bronze and hardstones like haematite, alabaster or agate. One of the most common shapes for Near Eastern weights was the ‘sleeping duck’. Measurements: L 1.9cm x W 0.8cm x H 1cm Provenance: Ex S collection, London, UK, deceased; formed 1970s-1990s.