Ancient Near East, The Levant, Phoenicia / Mesopotamia, ca. 2000 to 500 BCE. An ancient ostrich egg with a large central drilled hole atop for use as a vase or perhaps pouring offerings, other known examples sometimes have a pottery or wood spout attached and handles through the smaller holes to the side. The use of the ostrich eggs as vessels or decorative objects dates back to before the Bronze Age, in cultures without readily available pottery, after consuming the contents the shells were used as lightweight vessels. Before its extinction in the 20th century, the Arabian ostrich was widespread and easily attainable for Near Eastern cultures, while Egyptians and later Roman provinces would make use of African species. Hanging ostrich eggs in places of worship was practiced by ancient Greeks and the practice has continued to this day in some synagogues! This vessel is in superb and "egg-cellent" condition! Size: 6" L x 5.25" Diameter (15.2 cm x 13.3 cm); 7.25" H (18.4 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-Jane and Jack Weprin collection, New York City, New York, USA, acquired from the 1970s - 1991, by descent to family

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#175456

Intact and overall great condition. Some abrasions to surface and chips, but no repairs or restoration!