Loading, please wait...
LOT 0424
Egyptian Glass Eye Inlay Pair
PTOLEMAIC PERIOD, 332-30 B.C.
1 - 1 1/8 in. (4.12 grams total, 27-29 mm).
The sclera white and the iris black. [2, No Reserve]
ProvenanceAcquired on the UK art market, 1977-1979.
Private collection, London.
This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato.
Egyptian coffin eye inlays were both decorative and symbolic, intended to make the coffin appear lifelike and assist the deceased in the afterlife. Typically, they featured a white sclera (glass, travertine, alabaster or quartz), a dark iris (glass or often obsidian), and sometimes red paint at the inner corner. The eyes were often set in bronze or copper frames, occasionally with faience or bronze eyebrows.
CONDITIONTimeLine 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.
-
Egyptian Alabaster Kohl Jar
Late Period, 664-332 B.C.Estimate: £600 - 800 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £300
Ovoid body with discoid foot and a wide flattened lip. 458 grams, 76 mm
Private collection of Mr K.A., acquired in the 1990s-early 2000s. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato. -
Egyptian Coptic Bone Doll's Head
4th-6th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £130
A carved face and chest from a figurine or doll, with incised eyes, mouth and brow, reserved ears and nose. 7.47 grams, 55 mm
Very fine condition.
Property of a London gentleman; acquired in the 1970s. From the private collection of John Meredith, acquired since the 1990s; thence by descent. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato. -
Egyptian Carnelian Frog Amulet
Late Period, 664-332 B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £572
Carved in the round, pierced through the body for suspension. 298 grams, 19 mm
UK private collection before 2000. Acquired on the UK art market. Private collection, London, UK. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato.
Frog amulets in ancient Egypt symbolised fertility, rebirth, and regeneration. Associated with the goddess Heqet, linked to childbirth and life-giving forces, these amulets were especially popular in contexts related to fertility and protection during pregnancy and childbirth. Their connection to the annual Nile flood, which brought new life to the land, further reinforced their symbolism of renewal and abundance.
