3rd-2nd millennium BC. A carved serpentine or chlorite stone bowl with flat-section wall, everted rim and slightly convex base, entwined snakes with opposed heads in relief around the body. Cf. Aruz, J. ed., Art of The First Cities, New York, 2003, p.326, forparable snakes. 885 grams, 17cm wide (6 3/4"). Acquired from a Gallery in France. Kept in the UK since 1982, thence by descent. [A video of this lot is available to view on Timeline Auctions .]