1850 BC. A carved black haematite cylinder seal with intaglio standing figure of the goddess Astarte (Ishtar) in horned tiara and robe, with two worshippers; mounted to rotate in a sympathetic modern silver finger ring. Accompanied by an old scholarly note, hand written and signed by W.G. Lambert, late Professor of Assyriology, University of Birmingham, 1970-1993, and by a museum-quality impression of the seal's design; the seal has recently been reviewed by Dr. Ronald Bonewitz. 5.38 grams, 22mm overall, 16.32mm internal diameter (approximate size British L, USA 5 3/4, Europe 11.24, Japan 10) (1"). Private UK collection, by descent from the vendor's father. Accompanied by Astarte Gallery invoice dated 15/12/87 and published in Seaby's Antiquities Forum catalogue 6 (undated), the original catalogue also included in the sale. TimeLine Auctions Ltd arranges printed catalogue rostrum Auctions, eAuctions and Timed Auctions where we offer antiquities, ancient artefacts / artifacts, antiques, collectibles, coins, medals and books for public sale. [No Reserve]

Fine condition, crisply cut.