|
HOME :
Near Eastern Art :
Luristan Art : Luristan Terracotta Spouted Veseel
|
 |
|
|
|
Luristan Terracotta Spouted Veseel - GD.127
Origin: Central Asia
Circa: 1200
BC
to 700
BC
Dimensions:
5" (12.7cm) high
Collection: Near Eastern Art
Style: Luristan
Medium: Terracotta
Condition: Very Fine
$3,600.00
Location: United States
|
|
|
| Photo Gallery |
|
|
| Description |
Luristan (or Lorestan) literally means “Land of the
Lurs”, and was situated in a wide sweep of the
Zagros mountains in what is now western Iran.
The sociopolitics of this area are complex, with
repeated waves and invasions of Medes,
Cimmerians and Persians, amongst others, but
the culture thus created is remarkable for its
superb control of metalworking. There are many
styles, but the best-known pieces of bronze from
this area are anthropomorphic and zoomorphic
pieces reflecting religious and secular tastes, as
well as weaponry and utilitarian items that were
buried with the deceased in tombs across the
Zagros area. It was nonetheless viewed as a
precious resource, and was used alongside iron
once this metal became available, for while its
qualities of hardness and durability were
recognized, it merely made bronze a more
socially exclusive material. The hallmark of
Luristan wares is the tendency to elongate the
necks, tails and bodies of the animals to produce
graceful curves and arches. The re-discovery of
the splendor of Luristan metalwork began in the
1930s and made considerable progress after
World War II. The absence of relevant written
records makes their complex imagery difficult to
interpret in specific religious terms but it is likely
that they represent local deities of some kind. It
has been suggested that such elaborate bronze
items must have been the preserve of the tribal
leaders, a warrior class with the means to equip
themselves and their households for war.
- (GD.127)
|
| |
|
