Large Bactrian Bronze Age Alabaster Chalice

Bactrian alabaster chalice, circa 3000-2000 BC. It has an elegant tapering formed base with a undeep rimmed cup. The alabaster is strikingly vained. There are some old restaurations visible which blend in well. As time and coincidence shaped its patina it is unique and gives it an extra dimension. Some incrustation is noticable. The Bactrian culture existed between the 3rd millennium B.C. and the 6th century in Central Asia comprising modern Afghanistan and bordering India. Its origins as a bronze age civilization was only recently (1970s) discovered by Russian archaeologist. And it was only in the 1990s that Western countries learned about it. At its most famous site, the Bactria-Margiana complex, they found an astonishing amount of remains which still is being researched today. Apart from beautiful metal objects a lot of stone cups, chalices and idols were discovered. This example has no signs of mechanical tools, a subtle incrustation enhancing the alabaster and an overall very attractive patina. This chalice was acquired on the London art market in 2023. The object was previously part of a London private collection. Provenance From a private UK collection, acquired at Mansour Gallery London 1990's. 9 diam x 24 h 2150