Sumerian Cylinder Seal with Banqueting Scene
26th-24th century B.C. A chalk cylinder seal with frieze; accompanied by an old scholarly note, handwritten and signed by W.G. Lambert, late Professor of Assyriology, University of Birmingham, 1970-1993, which states: 'Cylinder seal of white stone, 28x17 mm. Two facing seated drinkers, wearing long robes and holding up cups. Standing servant in short clothes between them. Vessel with pointed base and two straws in it. Mesopotamian, c.2600-2400 B.C. Top of seal damaged, but design deep and clear.' In a different hand beneath 'Sumerian seal; early Dynastic Period III. Banquet scene. Manuscript of Prof. W.G. Lambert' and further notation to the reverse; accompanied by a museum-quality impression. 7.2 grams, 28 mm (1 1/8 in.). From the private collection of Emilio Bacarani, Valbonne, France, 1950-1988.Acquired in 1988.From the collection of G.M.R.H., London, UK.Accompanied by an original handwritten unsigned scholarly note by Professor Wilfrid George Lambert FBA.