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Details
LOT 0499
Egyptian Faience Ibis Amulet
LATE PERIOD, 664-332 B.C.
1 in. (1.56 grams, 26 mm).
Flat rectangular base with crouching ibis in profile with curved beak resting on an object (possibly a diminutive seated figure of Maat), details to the feathered body, pale green glaze.
Provenance
From an early 20th century collection.
This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato.
Literature
Cf. Petrie, W.M.F., Amulets. Illustrated by the Egyptian Collection in University College, London, 1914, pl. XLII, nos. 247h, j, and k, for similar examples.
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AUCTIONS:
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LOT 0499
Egyptian Faience Ibis Amulet
Estimate £150 - 200€170 - 230 (for guidance only)$200 - 270 (for guidance only)
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Although flies might seem like mere nuisances—often shown being swatted by pharaohs or officials—ancient Egyptians admired them for their speed, agility, and persistence. Fly-shaped amulets, first appearing in Naqada II burials around 3200 B.C., became especially popular in the New Kingdom. Made from materials like gold, silver, faience, lapis lazuli, and bone, they served apotropaic purposes, protecting against bites and warding off pests. Some may have also symbolised fertility. Gold fly pendants were even awarded by pharaohs to honour soldiers’ bravery and tenacity.
