Bidspirit auction | SUMERIAN STONE HEAD OF KING

SUMERIAN STONE HEAD OF KING - Ca. 2500 - 2000 BC. A finely carved from a black stone with a high polish, this sculptural head represents a male figure, possibly a ruler or priest-king. The stylised hair, arranged in a radiating pattern culminating in a central medallion, is incised with precision, suggesting a headdress or ceremonial hairstyle. The deeply recessed almond-shaped eyes and arched brows, with incised lashes, impart a solemn, introspective expression. The face bears a short, combed beard and moustache, each carefully delineated with engraved lines. The ears are prominent and meticulously modelled, while the back of the head is carved with long, flowing strands of hair that continue in rhythmic loops around the cheeks and neck. A perforation at the top suggests that the piece may once have been mounted or adorned with additional fittings.For similar see: A. Parrot, BUR Arte, I Sumeri, 1963, f. 219, p. 182Size: 55mm x 32mm; Weight: 135gProvenance: Private UK collection; Ex. M. H. collection, Kensington, acquired on the UK art market in the 1970s. This item has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database and comes with a confirmation letter.