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LOT 0497
Egyptian Faience Papyrus Sceptre Pendant
LATE PERIOD, 664-332 B.C.
2 1/2 in. (3 3/4 in.) (7.15 grams, 64 mm (34.4 grams total, 94 mm including stand)).
Amulet in the form of a wadj papyrus sceptre with suspension loop; with light encrustations; supplied with a wooden display stand.
ProvenanceEx Foxwell collection.
Acquired from a London gallery.
Ex Mr A.S. collection, 1990s.
Property of a Bristol, UK, gentleman.
Cf. Petrie, W.M.F., Amulets. Illustrated by the Egyptian Collection in University College, London, 1914, pl. II, no. 20c, for similar.
FootnotesThe papyrus column or wadj amulet is typically made out of turquoise feldspar or faience, as is prescribed in the Book of the Dead. The word wadj, meaning “green”, evokes concepts of well-being and vitality. Papyrus amulets were often placed around the neck of the deceased to ensure eternal youth in the afterlife. They were particularly popular during the Late Period (664-332 B.C.).
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Egyptian Diorite Wedjat Eye Amulet
Late Period, 664-332 B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £72
With transverse piercing for suspension. 7.55 grams, 30 mm
From the old Belfort collection, expert Jean Roudillon. Ex Hotel des Ventes de Belfort. Property of a French collector.
The wedjat-eye amulet represents the healed eye of the god Horus, featuring both human and falcon elements. The name wedjat in ancient Egyptian means ‘the one that is sound.’ According to Egyptian mythology, Horus' eye was wounded or taken by the god Seth and restored by Thoth. The wedjat-eye amulet was thought to protect its wearer and bestow the power of recovery and regeneration onto them. As such, it was used by both the living and the dead. -
Egyptian Bright Blue Faience Scarab in Gold Ring
Late Period, 664-332 B.C. and laterSold for (Inc. bp): £494
Scarab with detailed carapace and legs, impressed hieroglyphs to the underside; set in a 19th century gold ring. 2.44 grams, 23.63 mm overall, 17.57 x 16.48 mm internal diameter (approximate size British M, USA 6, Europe 12.46, Japan 12)
From an early 20th century collection. -
Egyptian 'Maspero' Green Faience Amulet
Late Period, 664-332 B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £312
Mask of Bes in low-relief with lentoid eyes and tongue extended. 2.09 grams, 28 mm
Ex Emile Bouillon Bey, c. 1880. From the Gaston Maspero Archaeological Fund. with Hotel des Ventes du Perigord, Bergerac, 24 June 2007. Property of a French collector.
Bes became one of ancient Egypt's most popular apotropaic deities from the New Kingdom onwards. Despite his somewhat fearful appearance, Bes was the patron and protector of pregnant women and children. He was also believed to protect from snakes.
