Egyptian Faience Bead Necklace String

Probably depicting young Harpocrates, holding his weight on his left arm, enormous phallus resting between his spread legs, shaved head and side-lock braid. 319 grams, 13 cm vwide



The Erotica Collection Christian von Faber-Castell, Küsnacgt ZH, Switzerland, since the late 1970s. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D’Amato.

A few early Hellenistic terracotta figures show the ithyphallic youth Harpocrates reclining on his phallus, usually depicted (when preserved) with a bald or shaved head and side-lock, sometimes in Macedonian dress. Some in this form have hermaphrodite-like features, although this may be little more than just the representation of a plump baby. Christian von Faber-Castell (born 1950) is a renowned German entrepreneur and art collector, best known as a member of the prominent Faber-Castell family, famed for their iconic writing instruments. A passionate advocate for art and culture, Christian von Faber-Castell curated an extensive and diverse private collection of erotica, spanning centuries and cultures. His collection reflects a deep appreciation for the interplay of beauty, sensuality, and artistic expression, bringing together rare and unique works that explore themes of intimacy and human connection. Pieces from this collection have been featured in notable exhibitions and are celebrated for their artistic and historical significance. This offering represents a rare opportunity to acquire works from one of the most fascinating and eclectic private collections of its kind.

Including seed and tubular beads, and other items. 35 grams total, 1-14 mm



From an old English collection. Acquired from Brigantia, York, 1990s. Ian Wilkinson collection, Nottinghamshire, UK, formed since 1985. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D’Amato.

Comprising tubular beads with interstitial annular beads connecting. 5.11 grams, 70 cm



From an old English collection. Acquired from Helios Gallery, 2011. Ian Wilkinson collection, Nottinghamshire, UK, formed since 1985. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D’Amato.