865 - An Achaemenid chlorite vessel with a figurative frieze, 5th century B.C.

An Achaemenid chlorite vessel with a figurative frieze, 5th century B.C. A heavy vessel made of a dark gray variety of chlorite. The upper section, approximately 8 cm high, tapers conically toward the rim, which features a distinctly stepped lip. The rim is beveled on the outside and rounded on the inside. A total of 22 figures are depicted in relief all around the wall, showing dignitaries from the empire marching to the left in a procession bearing gifts for the Great King. The individual figures are all bearded, wearing various headdresses, and some are armed—with bows in quivers or holding an akinax. All anatomical and clothing details are finely rendered. Below this is a frieze of rosettes arranged in a row, approximately 3 cm high and only slightly tapered downward. This is followed by the slightly domed base. Minor chips, especially along the rim. There is a crack in the base. Otherwise intact. The surface is covered with incrustations. Diameter 26 cm. Height 13 cm. Exceptionally impressive carving in soft chlorite, whose figures are closely modeled after a section of the processional frieze on the east side of the Apadana Palace in Persepolis. CULTURAL HERITAGE! Provenance: Private collection in northern Germany, acquired in 2024 from a Viennese art dealer. Previously in the private collection of Istvan Zelnik in Hungary. Condition: II–III