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LOT 0478
Egyptian Bronze Ibis Attachment
LATE PERIOD, 664-332 B.C. OR LATER
2 3/8 in. (114 grams, 60 mm).
Modelled in the round squatting on an ellipsoid base, lug to the underside, repaired.
ProvenanceFrom the collection of a gentleman, acquired on the London art market in the 1990s.
LiteratureCf. Roeder, G., Ägyptische Bronzefiguren II, Berlin, 1956, pls.57f, 58a, for similar low-squatting examples.
FootnotesThe 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.
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LOT 0478
Egyptian Bronze Ibis Attachment
Estimate £200 - 300€230 - 350 (for guidance only)$270 - 410 (for guidance only)
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Egyptian Limestone 'Floral' Inlay Group
Roman Period, 30 B.C.-323 A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £26
Group of discoid inlay plaques or gaming counters, crinoids with cinquefoil motif. 36 grams total, 11-18 mm
From a central London ADA dealership, 1980-1990. -
Egyptian Lapis Lazuli Frog Amulet
Late Period, 664-332 B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £260
Naturalistically rendered figure of a seated frog with longitudinal suspension hole through feet. 2.6 grams, 19 mm
From the collection of a gentleman, acquired on the London art market in the 1990s. -
Egyptian Bronze Ibis Attachment
Late Period, 664-332 B.C. or laterEstimate: £200 - 300 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £100
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.
