Egyptian Alabaster Bowl

Plano-convex in section with incised bilinear borders. 3.08 grams, 22 mm



Ex early 20th century collection of a lady. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.13045-248616.

The wedjat-eye amulet is a representation of the healed eye of the god Horus, featuring both human and falcon elements. The name Wedjat in ancient Egyptian means ‘the one that is sound.’ According to Egyptian mythology, Horus' eye was wounded or taken by the god Seth and restored by Thoth. The wedjat-eye amulet was thought to protect its wearer and bestow the power of recovery and regeneration onto them. It was very popular and used by both the living and the dead.

Modelled in the round squatting on an ellipsoid base, lug to the underside, repaired. 114 grams, 60 mm



From the collection of a gentleman, acquired on the London art market in the 1990s.

The ibis, particularly the sacred species known as the Egyptian ibis (Threskiornis aethiopicus), held a prominent place in ancient Egyptian religion and culture as a manifestation of the god Thoth. Revered as the deity of wisdom, writing, and knowledge, Thoth was often depicted in human form with the head of an ibis. During the Late Period onwards, the practice of mummifying ibises became widespread, leading to the creation of vast necropolises dedicated to these sacred birds. In places like Saqqara and Hermopolis, thousands of ibis mummies have been discovered in specially constructed catacombs. The mummification of these birds was not merely a ritual act; it was seen as a sacred offering to Thoth, meant to honour the god and seek his favour. Egyptians believed that by preserving the ibis through mummification, they could ensure its safe passage to the afterlife, establishing a direct connection between the earthly realm and the divine. These mummies were often accompanied by votive offerings, like this bronze figurine, further emphasising the relationship between the ibises and Thoth.

Amuletic pendant formed as keyhole-shaped plaque with decorative column to one face, ribbed suspension loop to the top. 1.52 grams, 25 mm



Ex early 20th century collection, London, UK.

The menat was a counterpoise that hung at the back of a heavy ornamental collar and was closely associated with the goddess Hathor. Amulets representing the counterpoise were thought to bring good luck, protect against evil spirits, and safeguard the wearer in the afterlife. Their Hathoric connection symbolised fertility and good health for women while representing virility for men.