Luristan Master of Animals Sceptre Finial
Circa 8th-7th century B.C. A bifacial bronze sceptre head formed as a Master of Animals atop a collared tubular stem with flared foot; the finial composed of two addorsed birds standing on their backs looking up towards two birds' heads facing down and joined to slender crescentic arms representing slender beasts with ridged backs and roaring mouths, each in the grip of the Master standing crowned between them; the Master with tubular body, animal-like ears, prominent nose above a small mouth and wearing collars, neck rings and tiered headdress; waisted socket below. 496 grams, 39 cm high (15 3/9 in.). Acquired 1980-2015. Ex Abelita family collection.