Egyptian Faience Bead Necklace

The scene comprising: a thick rectangular base with gessoed surface; squatting male figure in a white kilt with modelled hair and painted facial details, the hands drilled to accept the handles of tools; a wooden spit with impaled carcass of a roasting fowl in the left hand; a small fan in the right hand; a squat fire-bowl with rounded rim and recess to the upper edge. 980 grams total, 31 cm wide



Acquired in the 1960s. From the collection of the late Egyptologist Surgeon Commander PHK Gray RN. From a Surrey, UK, collection. Accompanied by a scholarly note from Egyptologist Paul Whelan. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.202932.

Crafted for the tomb to accompany the deceased and provide for him in the afterlife.

Ostrich feathers of Amun, delineated with a single vertical groove and curved tips; integral suspension loop to reverse; likely obsidian or basalt. 3.75 grams, 29 mm



From an early 20th century collection, Home Counties, UK, 1930-1940s.

The Pesesh-kef was a 'magical' ritual implement used in the ancient Egyptian Opening of the Mouth ceremony, which may have represented an implement used to cut umbilical cords. During the Opening of the Mouth ritual, priests held the implement to the mouth of a cult statue or mummy, allowing it to receive offerings.

Composed of polychrome amulets of various types, with suspension loops, including figures of deities and fruit, together with other examples. 1.05 grams total, 11-14 mm



From an early 20th century collection, Surrey, UK.