Elamite Bronze Idol

Culture: Iran/Elam

Period: Late 2nd millennium B.C.

Material: Bronze

Dimensions: 7.2 cm high

Price: 3 600 Euro

Ref: 6612

Provenance: Collection Nicole and Jean-Michel Thierry, according to a collection note acquired at Drouot in 1959. The object was probably acquired as lot 60 at the auction Me Rheims, which took place on 18 and 19 May 1960 at Drouot.

Condition: Intact

Description: Exceedingly in high quality worked out solid bronze statuette of a standing worshipper or priest. The androgynous figure wears a long attire that is held up by a sash tied around the stomach and folded up at the front. The vestment with fine, in cold work engraved pleats, underlines the curves of the rather female figure. At the bottom the pointy feet protrude. The arms are raised to a praying gesture and hold the elaborately styled headcover, which has a deep parting in the centre which extends to the hair at the back of the head. The face is worked out bird-like, following northwestern Iranian tradition, with a long, pointy hooked nose and large round eyes and is reminiscent of later Luristan bronze. The chin is round, wrinkles below the eyes may suggest a beard. Under the legs a tenon, where the idol was affixed as a votive offering. On an old wood base.