Western Asiatic Bronze Zoomorphic Goat Figurine - 2 cm

A charming small ancient bronze figurine depicting a stylised standing goat, attributed to the Iron Age bronze-working tradition of Luristan in western Iran. The animal is represented with an elongated, slender body, upright neck and four sturdy, slightly splayed legs. The distinctly modelled head features a projecting muzzle and stylised lateral extensions representing the animal's ears and horns. A short tail projects from the hindquarters. Despite its small dimensions, the figurine possesses a lively sculptural character. The slightly irregular positioning of the legs gives the animal an almost walking appearance. Particularly characteristic is the highly stylised treatment of the animal's anatomy, with simplified forms emphasising the elongated body, raised neck, prominent head and powerful legs. The compact proportions and expressive modelling reflect the distinctive artistic vocabulary associated with ancient Iranian miniature bronzes. Cultural Context and Dating The bronze-working traditions of Luristan, in the Zagros Mountains of western Iran, flourished during the late second and early first millennia BC. Animal representations formed an important part of the region's artistic tradition, appearing on ornamental fittings, pins, horse equipment and small bronze objects. Goats were among the recurring motifs of ancient Iranian animal imagery, reflecting the importance of these animals in the pastoral societies of the Zagros region. On stylistic grounds, the present figurine is attributed to the Luristan Iron Age tradition, approximately the 9th–7th century BC. The original function of the small bronze remains uncertain. Comparable animal representations could have served decorative purposes, formed part of larger objects or possibly held a votive significance. Condition Good condition considering its considerable age and small dimensions. The principal elements of the goat, including the head, neck, body, four legs and short tail, are preserved. The bronze displays an attractive greenish-brown patina, with darker areas of oxidation and mineral encrustations. Age-related surface wear, minor irregularities and localised corrosion are visible throughout. Some finer details, particularly around the head, are partially obscured by surface deposits. The figurine is freestanding and offered without a display stand. Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form an integral part of the condition description. Provenance Formerly in the Madeleine & Erich Dammann Collection, Germany. Acquired during the collectors’ extensive travels between 1950 and 1970. The collection is documented in Germany by 1970 through historical photographs of the family residence and subsequently remained in continuous family ownership. The objects were acquired privately during the collectors’ travels. As was customary for private purchases made at local markets during the 1950s and 1960s, purchase receipts or invoices were generally neither issued nor requested. Historical photographs and biographical documentation relating to the Dammann Collection are available and support the long-standing provenance of the collection.

Estimation:€275

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