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Details
LOT 0409
Egyptian Hardstone Heart Amulet
LATE PERIOD, 664-332 B.C.
3/4 in. (1.64 grams, 18 mm).
Modelled in the round with ribbed loop above, flange and two lateral tabs. [No Reserve]
Provenance
From the collection of Doctor Girard, a collector for over 60 years.
with Hotel des Ventes de Clermont-Ferrand, 22 May 2017.
Property of a French collector.
Literature
Cf. Petrie, W.M.F., Amulets. Illustrated by the Egyptian Collection in University College, London, 1914, pl. I, nos. 7a-p, for examples of heart amulets.
Footnotes
According to ancient Egyptian beliefs, the heart (ib) was considered to be the centre of intelligence, emotions, and behaviour. The heart was also believed to store an individual's memories. During the Weighing of the Heart ceremony in the afterlife, the heart could speak up for the deceased and account for their lifetime of actions before Osiris. For this reason, heart amulets were placed on the mummy to safeguard the organ and ensure a favourable outcome during judgment.
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