c.8th-6th century BC. A silver knife handle modelled in the round as a couchant lion, elaborate detailing to face, forelegs and mane, tail curled along one side of body, two collars with herringbone infill to the rear; fragmentary iron remains of knife; accompanied by a custom-made display stand. See Curtis, J.E., Art and Empire, Treasures From Assyria In The British Museum, The British Museum, 2006, p.193, for a comparable lion in bronze. 144 grams total, 10cm including stand (4"). From an important London W1, gallery; acquired from a French gentleman in 2011; formerly in a French collection; this lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by AIAD certificate number no.10778-177404. [A video of this lot can be viewed on the Timeline Auctions website]