SABAEAN ALABASTER BULL STELE
SOUTHERN ARABIA, C. 3RD CENTURY B.C. - 1ST CENTURY A.D.
£3,780
Auction: 31 May 2023 at 15:00 BST
Description
carved alabaster, of trapezoidal form, carved in high relief with a central head of a bull with incised features, raised on a bespoke mount
Dimensions
27cm high
Provenance
Provenance:
Hirsch Auction, 23rd September 2008, lot 257
Private Collection of Mr. L.
Footnote
Note:
For a similar example please see: The British Museum, London, accession number 130884.
The bull was an important symbol in the ancient Kingdom of Saba, located in modern-day Yemen. The Sabaean people believed that bulls represented strength, fertility, and prosperity, and they incorporated this powerful animal into their art and culture. Sabaean bull sculptures were often placed in prominent locations such as temples and public spaces, and they were believed to bring good fortune and protection to the community. The bull was also associated with the Sabaean deity Almakah, who was believed to be the goddess of agriculture and fertility.