Ancient Near East / Central Asia, probably Sasanian (Sassanian / Sassanid) Empire, ca. 2nd to 7th century CE. A charming miniature cast bronze vessel in the form of a harpy. The bird body stands upright on two clawed feet, with its wings extended behind its back and its human head upright and facing the viewer. Around its neck is a large, tri-partite pendant that stands out from the surface of the body in high relief. At the top of the head is a conical opening. The harpy was originally a personification of the wind, but slowly transformed into fierce half-women, half-birds who, to the Greeks, were among the guardians of the underworld. In the Near East, they are related to griffins and other fantastical creatures, and also seem to have been seen as guardian figures. A small vessel like this one was likely made to hold perfume or ointments. Size: 1.9" L x 0.85" W x 2.55" H (4.8 cm x 2.2 cm x 6.5 cm); 2.75" H (7 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection

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#133400

Dark, slightly textured green patina. Nice remaining detail.