Ancient Near East, Mesopotamia, ca. late 3rd to early 2nd millennia BCE. A mold-made terracotta plaque with a relief scene of two standing people, shown in profile, making an offering before a large altar. The altar is as tall as the people, and stands on a double column, topped by a large bowl filled with some substance. Both people hold items in their hands that they will be placing upon the altar. Each person has finely detailed clothing, and the altar is also wonderfully detailed. This scene gives us a glimpse to ancient religious practices. Size: 4" W x 2.5" H (10.2 cm x 6.4 cm)

During this time period, the Mesopotamians produced great numbers of clay plaques, many of which survive to this day. They were made for use by private individuals or families in the home, which is where most have been excavated. They are often found broken, probably because their ritual power was no longer needed or had expired.

Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#121055

Ancient loss to upper corner; small areas of encrustation on surface. Scene is very clear.