Western Asiatic Baltic Amber Bust Pendant. 9th-12th century A.D. A pendant carved in amber depicting a female bust modelled in the round with high-relief stylised facial features, neatly radiating ribbed hair or cap, pleated garment overlapped and closed over the chest; pierced above the ears to accept a suspension loop or thong. Cf. Sedov, B.B., Finno-Ugri i Balti v Epokhi Srednevekovija, Moscow, 1987, plate LXXXII, for examples of figural art from the Baltic / Finno-Ugrian area. 21.6 grams, 58 mm (2 1/4 in.) Acquired 1970-1999. London collection of the late Mr S.M., thence by descent.

Fine condition, cracked. Extremely rare.