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LOT 0474
Egyptian Anhydrite Cosmetic Bowl
MIDDLE KINGDOM, CIRCA 2040-1780 B.C.
1 1/2 in. (33.68 grams, 39 mm).
Conical in profile with rounded rim, narrow disc base; repaired; a rare stone.
ProvenanceEx William Ohly, 1883-1955.
Ex Abbey Museum, Barnet, by descent.
Cf. Aston, B.G., Ancient Egyptian Stone Vessels: Materials and Forms, SAGA 5, Heidelberg, 1994, pp.145-146, no. 157, for the type.
FootnotesAnhydrite, incorrectly called "blue marble" by early excavators, was a stone favoured by the ancient Egyptians from the Middle Kingdom to the Second Intermediate Period. This particular example follows a Middle Kingdom-style cosmetic kohl jar that could be modelled with or without an integral rim.
CONDITIONTimeLine Auctions follows a vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process
AUCTIONS:
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Egyptian Faience Menat Amulet
Late Period, 664-332 B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £286
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. -
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Egyptian Bronze Osiris Statuette
Late Period, 664-332 B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £1,235
Standing figure in mummiform stance, wearing the conical Atef crown with flanking ostrich plumes and frontal uraeus, holding the crook (heka) and flail (nekhakha) regalia; mounted on a display stand. 185 grams total, 15.4 cm including stand
Property of a deceased gentleman's collection, 1980s. Ex John Nicholson Auction, Haslemere, Surrey, UK. -
Egyptian Heart Scarab Group
Late Period, 664-332 B.C.Estimate: £140 - 180 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £70
Comprising two scarabs with striated wing cases and ribbed underside. 7.5 grams total, 18-20 mm
From the collection of a gentleman, acquired on the London art market in the 1990s.
The scarab amulet was a powerful symbol of rebirth, transformation, and protection in ancient Egypt. Modelled after the beetle linked to the sun god Khepri, it represented the cycle of life and regeneration. Used from the Middle Kingdom (c. 2050 BCE) onwards, scarabs served as funerary amulets, personal charms, and seals—often inscribed with prayers or names—reflecting both spiritual beliefs and daily life.
