Many grand civilizations inhabited the area of Western Asia in Antiquity, and their wealth and prosperity is witnessed by the very sophisticated precious metal crafting of jewellery. Gold would have been hammered down to a thin layer and manipulated into different shapes. Gold, electrum and silver jewellery would have featured gold granules, glass and semi-precious stone inlays and detailed engravings. Fine granulation along with filigree, were at the centre of Near Eastern and Western Asiatic jewellery production and were later adopted by the Greeks, Etruscans and Romans. This beautiful applique might have been part of a larger composition, embellishing a fine piece of jewellery or an elaborate dress. The figure might portray an offerant or worshipper, kneeling in front of a ruler or deity.
To discover more about jewellery in the Ancient World, please visit our relevant post: Jewellery in Antiquity.
