A Near Eastern Stone Bear, ca. 3rd - 2nd millennium BCE

Although simply carved, this little sculpture still manages to portray the immense strength and subtle grace of the ancient Syrian brown bear (Ursus arctos syriacus). Originally found in their namesake Syria, as well as Israel, Lebanon, and the Sinai Peninsula, it is now considered extinct in these regions due to habitat loss and poaching. It survives today in Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Iraq, Iran, Turkey, and Turkmenistan, living in mountainous areas where it can be found foraging in forests, grasslands, and meadows.Medium: Stone Dimensions: Height: 1 3/8 inches (3.6 cm), Length: 2 inches (5.1 cm) Condition: Surface wear and signs of usage, but intact and in good condition overall. Custom mounted on an old acrylic and wood mount. Provenance: Collection of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Feuer, NY., acquired 1970s - 1980s