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Details

LOT 0479

Egyptian Faience Phallic Amuletic Pendant

PTOLEMAIC PERIOD, 332-30 B.C.

3/4 in. (1.54 grams, 18 mm).

Formed as stylised phallus with large testes and part of the lower abdomen, suspension loop above.

Provenance

From the collection of a late London, UK, gentleman, 1970s.
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. I, nos. 16a-d, for similar examples.

Footnotes

Small phallic amulets in ancient Egypt symbolised fertility, protection, and vitality. Often worn as jewellery or carried as personal charms, these amulets invoked the generative power of the male form, which was closely tied to life, creation, and strength. They were commonly used to ward off evil, ensure male potency, and protect children or the wearer from harm. These amulets reflect the Egyptian belief in the protective and regenerative power of sexuality, and their use spanned both everyday life and funerary contexts.

CONDITION

VETTING:

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AUCTIONS:

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LOT 0479

Egyptian Faience Phallic Amuletic Pendant

Estimate £100 - 140€120 - 160 (for guidance only)$140 - 190 (for guidance only)

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