Luristan, the central province of Iran’s western frontier, is a region of open plains intersected by high parallel mountain ranges running northwest to southeast. Although the formidable topography in this region fostered the separate development of many local isolated communities, by the later second millennium B.C., widespread seminomadism forestalled complete isolation. Fresh influences from migration and trade resulted in the regions cultural traditions being relatively open to change, a characteristic that is atypical of secluded peoples. The bronze work from this region reveals a culture whose art was stylistically influenced by Mesopotamia, while at the same time contained traits that were distinctly local and unparalleled outside the region.

This bronze anthropomorphic figurine is a stunning example of Luristan metalworking skill and artistry. With its slender, elongated body and stylized head and limbs, this figurine presents an image that is at once ancient and modern. Abstracted elements cast a modernity of spirit that speaks of twentieth century abstract artists, whose sensibilities express the potent essence of an object, eliminating all but the essential. For us, this ancient Luristan figurine touches our essence, allowing for the exploration of our inner spirits, through the simplistic beauty of this timeless work of art.