Egyptian Falcon-Headed Lapis Lazuli Scaraboid

LATE PERIOD, 664-525 B.C.

5/8 in. (2.73 grams, 17 mm).

Naturalistic detailing to the underside with pierced lug for attachment; detailed clypeus on upper side, modelled with a falcon head.

Provenance

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

Literature

Cf. Ben-Tor, D., The Scarab: A Reflection of Ancient Egypt, Jerusalem, 1989, p.39, for discussion, p.78, nos. 16-17, for lapis lazuli examples; Andrews, C., Amulets of Ancient Egypt, London, 1994, item 59(c).

Footnotes

Funerary scarabs with falcon heads such as this were placed within the wrappings of the mummy on various parts of the body. They undoubtedly served a protective role, perhaps with solar connotations of rebirth (suggested by the falcon head) but, unlike heart scarabs, their precise function is not known.

CONDITION

VETTING:

TimeLine Auctions follows a vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process

AUCTIONS:

TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.

LOT 0017