Catalog: Antiques: Regional Art: Ancient World (3)

Unusual 19th century Persian brass betel box with hinged cover and chiseled designs: the top with equestrian lion hunt, the bottom with a scene of a person with long scimitar slaying a man with several figures and a dog watching, the sides with friezes of various animals: lions, dogs and birds. The scenes must be a reference to some literary story...

19th century Persian silver melon shape salt shaker with repousse branch on top surrounded by a band of small flowers, and with pendant drapery in every sector of the bottom part. Last quarter of 19th century, Qajar dynisty era, very well made, two parts fit snugly, in excellent vintage condition, nicely tarnished (can be cleaned with silver tarnish remover in a minute if needed). Hallmarked with 2 characters on the bottom. Diameter 2 inches, height 2 inches, weight 1.45 ounces (41 grams).

Bronze ring dating from 8-6th century BC made in Northern Italy by Villanovian culture named from a typical settlement discovered in 1853 at Villanova, near Bologna. Wonderful artifact with rich green patina, in excellent shape for a 2700 year old object. The piece comes from the Koutalakis collection. Can actually be worn as ring - the inner diameter is 15.5 mm, which corresponds to ring size 4.