Ca. 1100–700 BC. Western Asiatic. A bronze vessel with a short neck, globular body, ring foot and L-shaped, elongated spout decorated with a band of hemispherical rivets. A U-shaped handle is attached to the body. This gorgeous piece attests to the highly skilled craftsmanship of ancient Western Asia, where artisans worked to create intricate tableware for use in elaborate banquets. Banqueting was a major part of the aristocratic culture in antiquity and required a range of specialised utensils and vessels such as this one. Such items could also have religious purposes, used when making offerings to the gods. Excellent condition, beautiful patina. Provenance: Property of an Oxfordshire art professional; previously in an old British collection, formed in the 1980s on the UK / International art markets. Size: L:210mm / W:380mm ; 830g