Rhyton terminating in the forepart of a wild cat. Culture: Parthian. Dimensions: H. 10 7/8 in. (27.5 cm). Date: ca. 1st century B.C..Elaborate bowls, animal-headed drinking vessels, and rhytons--vessels which have a hole at the front from which liquid flows--were highly valued in ancient Near Eastern society. During the pre-Achaemenid, Achaemenid, and Parthian periods, examples made of silver, gold, and clay were used throughout a vast area extending both to the east and west of Iran. The animals on these vessels included the ram, horse, bull, ibex, supernatural creatures, and female divinities; some were engraved with royal inscriptions. Rhytons made of precious materials were probably luxury wares used at royal courts. Both the rhyton and the animal-headed vessel were adopted by the Greek world as exotic and prestigious Oriental products.Dating from the Parthian period, this silver rhyton is a fine example of the enduring influence of Hellenistic culture, which owes much to the art