Near Eastern

An Agate Frog

Blueish agate
Mesopotamia, 2nd millenium B.C.
H. 1.5 cm; L. 2.9 cm

This figurine of a squatting frog is delicately carved from agate with naturally occuring light blue veining. Despite the hardness of the stone, and the inherent difficulty in carving it, the anatomical details are rendered with charm and sensitivity. Such miniature works in hard stone were used in antiquity as weights in various denominations. This one, with its unusual colouring and high polish, is a delight to hold in one’s hand.

Condition: Excellent

Provenance: ex. Marc Labarbe, Toulouse, Lot Nr. 735, Nov. 2007.

Item reference: NE940