SUMERIAN PAINTED ALABASTRON

Ca. 4100 - 1750 BC A rare example of a miniature alabastron that is hand-carved from honey-yellow banded alabaster. The globular cylindrical vessel exhibits a rounded base as well as narrow neck, a flared rim, and a painted red and black stripe on the shoulders. Miniature vessels like this were perhaps used to contain small amounts of medicinal ingredients for a votive offering.
Size: 60mm x 55mm; Weight: 150g
Provenance: Property of a London collector, UK. Ex London private collection acquired in the 1970s-80s.This item has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database and comes with a confirmation letter.

Estimate: GBP 4500 - 9000