Torque with Lions' Heads

  • End of the 6th century B.C.
  • Gold
  • W-25.8
Catalogue Entry

End of the 6th century B.C.
Gold
W. 25.8 cm
This tubular gold torque is decorated with a twisted cord spiraling design. Each end of the torque is fitted with a lion's head. The cylindrical section which fits into the lion's neck is divided vertically into two round disk separators which would have been originally fitted with gems or glass. These separators can also be found on the torques and bracelets (nos. 117, 118, and 120) from the Oxus treasure at the British Museum, and the torque excavated at Susa. The lion's eye sockets are hollowed and their foreheads have triangular hollows. These areas would have been inlaid with precious gems or glass. The triangular depression on the lion's forehead can also be seen on cat. No. 192 m.