A delicate Near-Eastern Western Asiatic amuletic bead in the shape of an animal, possibly a bird. The zoomorphic figure rests on two protrusions on its underside, likely representing feet, with a slight bump on its back and chest, potentially depicting the plumage of a bird. The amulet has been pierced vertically for suspension. The amulet is carved from fine pale white rock crystal. The surface of the amulet features some pitting and roughness as consistent with its age and some earthly encrustations. Near Eastern civilisations used jewels not only for the leaving but also for the deceased. Not by chance, many jewels have been found in burials. On top of gold, also stones such as carnelian, turquoise or rock crystal were used for jewellery. In particular, the latter was appreciated for its delicate transparency, and also involved for other objects like vessels or similar tools. Representations of animals comprised a large portion of the Ancient Near Eastern artistic repertoire. Specifically, images of wild animals and features considered dangerous or powerful appear in all periods of ancient Near Eastern art, dating back to the Neolithic period. Measurements: (circa) L 1.9cm x W 0.6cm Provenance: Ex S.M. Collection, London, Mayfair, acquired 1970s-90s.