Bowl

Slightly twisted out of shape; cracks, and large holes from corrosion. Deep bowl, nearly hemispherical, once resting on four knob feet- the bottom now crushed. Repousse decoration: on bottom between feet four couchant lions, their tails meeting in a cross at center; on the wall three pairs of opposed winged sphinxes with lion bodies, tails ending in bird heads, and womens' heads facing out. One head complete, 2 damaged, 3 missing. Fine engraved detail for feathers, hair etc. On the inside the repousse appears hollow. Just below the lip four small holes, three with remains of dowels still in them, for fastening in a liner. North Syrian, 8th C.B.C.