Near East, Sasanian, ca. 4th century CE. An exquisite Sasanian (also spelled Sassanian) ovoid stone intaglio, its milky white surface finely carved with a depiction of a wolf suckling her cub - this carved figuration revealing the contrasting black stone beneath which is also visible on the beveled edge. Sasanian art demonstrated a fascinating fusion of Near Eastern with Greco-Roman influences. While Near Eastern art was immersed in the realm of fantasy - depicting sphinxes, centaurs, and other hybrid creatures - the Sassians also presented scenes from the natural world around them, as we see in this beautiful example of the luxury arts. Size: 0.5" W x 0.375" H (1.3 cm x 1 cm)
The Sasanian Empire (also called Sassanid, Sasanid, or Sassanian) is generally regarded as the highlight of ancient Iranian civilization and was the final pre-Islamic empire of Persia. It was established by Ardeshir I, the son of Papak and descendant of Sasan, in 224 CE. This empire came to an end in 651 CE. The Sasanians thought of themselves as the rightful successors to the Achaemenid Persians.
Provenance: ex Estate of Eldert Bontekoe, Pegasi Numismatics, Ann Arbor, Michigan USA acquired before 2000
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#158806
Condition
Very light wear to periphery. Otherwise, intact and excellent with nice earthen deposits in recessed areas.