A rare Mesopotamian Bird Amulet, Uruk/Jemdet Nasr Period, ca 4000 - 2900 BCE

this large marble amulet of a stylized bird holds great charm.  Well carved on an integral base, the plump wings, tail, and facial features are articulated by a series of engraved lines.  On the right side, central to the lower wing, a circular impression suggests a drill hole was commenced but discarded for a second is also in evidence to the lower front and another, in the same position can be found to the left, but again unfinished. 

Condition: Intact, in very good condition overall, care has been taken to provide a smooth, well-polished finish.

Dimensions:  height: 4.5cm (1 3/4 inches)  width:  5 cm (2 inches)

Provenance: Forming part of the James Stephan Snr. collection, assembled in the late 1960's and then by descent. Dr. Stephan was a US intelligence officer who also held a degree in archaeology. He was posted in the Anatolian region of Turkey with the US government during this time, and acquired his collection from dealers and villagers throughout the region.