Egyptian Blue Faience Shabti with Hieroglyphic Inscription

With tapering sides and pointed top, incised vertical column of hieroglyphic text to one face: ẖry-ḥbt ḳbḥ ḥtp mr-mšꜥ imn, ''lector-priest' (give) purified offering (to the) general of the army (of) Amun'; mounted on a custom-made stand. 444 grams total, 21 cm high



Acquired in Egypt in the early 20th century. Private collection of Mr T.H., Norfolk, UK.

In ancient Egypt, it was common for small obelisks like this one to be placed on either side of the entrance to private tombs. Typically inscribed on one side only, these obelisks held great solar religious significance and were closely associated with the cult of the sun-god Re. They symbolised the ancient Egyptians' belief in the rebirth of the deceased, with the moment of revivification being characterised by the individual's face being illuminated by the rays of the rising sun. It was said that, at that moment, the deceased was able to "open their sight to see the sun-god," as one religious text explains.

A mount fashioned in low-relief with a loop on the reverse and tang projecting from the base, depicting the crouching figure of Horus in falcon-headed form with sun-disc crown, deeply striated wig, and wearing a broad collar, once holding a maat feather (now misssing). 69.6 grams, 11.7 cm



Part of an old collection dating back to the 19th century. Ex property of a gentleman, acquired before the 1980s. Private collection of Mr T.H., Norfolk, UK.

Elegantly proportioned vessel with marvered trails to the body, neck and mouth; handles absent; mounted on a custom-made stand. 404 grams total, 18.5 cm including stand



Acquired from Arte Primitivo, New York City, U.S.A., circa 2010. Private collection of Professor Kenneth Graham, London, UK.