Egyptian Faience Amulet Collection

Carved miniature headrest with rectangular base. 1.14 grams, 12 mm



Ex Constable collection, 1990s. Ex Ancient & Oriental, UK. Ex P. Morris collection. Accompanied by an old photograph and a previous catalogue cutting.

The headrest, or weres amulet, was placed under the mummy's head to protect it from damage, and so ensure their rebirth. Most are made of haematite, though other materials, such as faience, were sometimes used. The headrest’s role is specified in Chapter 166 of the Book of the Dead. By the Late Period, they were attached to or inserted into the mummy wrappings.

Comprising a group of crumb-decorated polychrome oblate beads and a centrepiece pendant formed as a stylised bearded head. 179 grams total, 12-42 mm



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

The Phoenicians, renowned seafarers and traders, were also skilled glassworkers. They produced a wide variety of glass beads using core-forming and winding techniques, with vivid colours and elaborate designs that reflect both technical mastery and cross-cultural influence. Among the most iconic Phoenician beads are glass 'head' beads, crafted in the form of stylised human or mythological faces. Typically, they feature exaggerated facial details like bulging eyes, large noses, beards, and headdresses, often with expressive or comic features. They were possibly worn as amulets to ward off evil or attract protection, though they may also represent deities, ancestors, or foreigners. These beads often incorporate Egyptian, Greek, and Near Eastern stylistic elements, reflecting the Phoenicians’ extensive trade networks.

Head and torso of a mummiform figure, wearing a tripartite wig and divine beard, with arms crossed and hands holding agricultural implements and a cord for a seed bag over the left shoulder, three horizontal bands of hieroglyphic inscriptions to the lower body; mounted on a wooden display stand. 86 grams, 12.5 cm including stand



From a Scottish gentleman’s collection, Glasgow, formed from the early 2000s.

The owner's name is poorly preserved, although the filiation that follows may read: "...born (to) Djed-mut-ies-ankh" (ms ḏd mwt ı͗w s Ꜥnḫ).