Description
Bronze bull head
A rare Sabaean bronze bull head.
Cast around a solid terracotta core the naturalistically modelled head has grooved eyebrows and neck, recessed nostrils, small erect ears and eyes with dark stone inlays, the pupils drilled. The forehead is also recessed with a small circle above a crescent, symbolic of the bull’s connection with the moon god. The long upward curving horn remains intact (left), restored (right) horn. A loop for suspension or attachment on top of the head. A very Strong and imposing piece.Powerful, enigmatic, and deeply expressive, this is a commanding piece that speaks to the strength and spiritual significance of the bull in Sabaean culture.
REFERENCE #
SI_SA_1018
CIVILIZATION SABAEAN,
CIRCA 200 B.C. – 100 B.C.
SIZE
H.16 cm
CONDITION
Fine condition
(Right Horn Restored)
PRICE
$45,000
PROVENANCE
Christies 23.3.71 Property of a Gentleman, from Al-Jubah to the south of Marib
Private collection UK, acquired late 1960s
Frequently Asked Questions
The Bronze Bull Head is a rare artifact from the Sabaean civilization, dating back to around 200 B.C. to 100 B.C. It is a naturalistically modeled bronze sculpture cast around a solid terracotta core, featuring detailed facial features and symbolic markings related to the bull's spiritual significance.
The Bronze Bull Head was cast around a solid terracotta core, allowing for detailed naturalistic modeling. It includes grooved eyebrows and neck, recessed nostrils, and eyes with dark stone inlays with drilled pupils. The horns are long and upward curving, with one horn restored.
The forehead of the bull head is recessed with a small circle above a crescent, symbolizing the bull's connection with the moon god. This highlights the spiritual and cultural significance of the bull in Sabaean society.
The Bronze Bull Head measures 16 cm in height and is in fine condition. The right horn has been restored, while the left horn remains intact, preserving the piece's imposing and powerful appearance.
The artifact was originally from Al-Jubah, south of Marib, and was part of a private collection in the UK acquired in the late 1960s. It was also sold at Christie's auction on March 23, 1971, from the property of a gentleman.
The Bronze Bull Head is priced at $45,000, reflecting its rarity, fine condition, and cultural significance as a powerful Sabaean artifact.
