Victorian Era Assyrian Revival Cuff Bracelet
with Relief from Nimrud, in 18k Gold
$ 6,800.00
* * SOLD * *
A rare and wonderful 19th century Assyrian Revival bracelet, modeled in 18k gold, whose face is decorated with pierced and applied figures that depict an Assyrian court scene (copied from a famous Gypsum panel that was excavated at the city of Nimrud, from the palace of King Ashurnasirpal II). These ancient figures were hand pierced from gold sheet, and finely engraved with the details of their embroidered clothing, their finery, their faces, and the objects they bear. The central figure is Ashurnasirpal II. He is attended by three court eunuchs— two arms bearers and one who offers the king a cup of wine. Behind the eunuchs we have two Apkallu (winged, supernatural, protective figures), each carrying a bucket of holy water and holding a pine cone. Behind one of these winged figures is a sacred tree, symbolizing abundance, fertility and prosperity for Assyria. This wide bracelet is hinged, and it closes with a secure hidden clasp. The bracelet was bloomed to bring the fine gold out of the 18k alloy, creating a rich, powdery, high-color surface. The decorated side of the bracelet in in beautiful condition; the backside is good, with superficial dents near the hinge (as shown). This bracelet is a stunner— we love its big, clean look, and the story that's told by its subject matter!
See the wall panel, here, at the British Museum. Read more about Apkallu here, and about eunuchs, as represented in these Assyrian panels, here.
Materials
18k Gold
Age
c. 1870
Dimensions
Bracelet face measures approx 1"; bracelet interior measures approx 6 3/4"; oval opening measures 2 1/4" x 1 14/16", across the top of the bracelet; this is a close fit for a 6 1/4" wrist (it closes easily, and isn't uncomfortable, but fits a bit tight).