Sabean Limestone Stele of a Seated Woman

Culture: Sabaean

Period: 1st century B.C.

Material: Limestone

Dimensions: 47 cm high

Price: Sold

Ref: 6156

Provenance: American private collection, acquired in the 1970s. As of 1991 at Shadad Antiques in London. Christie’s auction on 12 June 2002, lot 349. Thence London art market.

Condition: Except for small chips intact and of strong expression.

Description: Monumental limestone stele of a seated woman in a long tunica with a ribbed hem. She wears opulent neck jewellery with nine small circular pendants and one large circular pendant, hanging on a crescent amulet. The face is characterized by a big nose and finely pierced, almond-shaped eyes. The long hair cascades in finely carved braids on the shoulders. The bent arms wear bracelets and are stretched forward as fists. Bare feet are visible under the tunica. Remains of white engobe are preserved.