Carved stamp with face and animal figure with symbols on bottom and back
Both items were picked up in Baalbeck, northern Lebanon which is the site of a large acropolis and where, during construction work, things are found in the soil. The larger figure (11x9cm) is engraved with an image of an animal and a range of symbols on bottom and back. The smaller item of a mans face (4x3cm) seems to be some kind of seal in view of the pictorial figures on the underside. I am interested to learn more about possible dating and origins/story and your opinion on the genuine character. I am aware that I will not be able to legally sell this item to a licensed dealer in e.g. Europe because it originates in Lebanon and has no certified provenance. Am also not planning to as it is not part of my personal and private collection. Still I would be interested to find out what the approximate value would be if provenance etc could be legally established.
Purchased these from small local dealers in Lebanon
Gallery/Dealer
No
Dear Rein,
Thank you for your request. Please choose one object which should be apprised. Thank you.
With kind regards,
Georg
Dear Rein,
Thank you for your answer and your patience. To make this short and as useful for you. I doubt the authenticity of all objects. All the pieces show marks of a modern treating and stone carving. The edges are too sharp and there are no traces of usage and polishing the surface through touching, using or handling the seals for example. Also, the last piece is artificially aged with coloring in a brownish liquid.
Regarding this assessment, these pieces have just a decorative character and value.
With best regards,
Georg
Hello Georg. Thanks for your feedback. Bought them together and they seem so similar in any way, so thought I could do both but its fine. Please value the smaller seal type item for me. If you could add your perspective if the lager one is genuine, I'd appreciate that. If the answer is yes, I'll gladly pay for a valuation for is. Regards. Rein