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LOT 0481
Egyptian Heart Scarab Group
LATE PERIOD, 664-332 B.C.
3/4 in. (7.5 grams total, 18-20 mm).
Comprising two scarabs with striated wing cases and ribbed underside. [2]
ProvenanceFrom the collection of a gentleman, acquired on the London art market in the 1990s.
This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato.
Cf. Ben-Tor, D., The Scarab: A Reflection of Ancient Egypt, Tel Aviv, 1993, pp. 76-77, for similar examples.
FootnotesThe scarab amulet was a powerful symbol of rebirth, transformation, and protection in ancient Egypt. Modelled after the beetle linked to the sun god Khepri, it represented the cycle of life and regeneration. Used from the Middle Kingdom (c. 2050 BCE) onwards, scarabs served as funerary amulets, personal charms, and seals—often inscribed with prayers or names—reflecting both spiritual beliefs and daily life.
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AUCTIONS:
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LOT 0481
Egyptian Heart Scarab Group
Estimate £150 - 200€170 - 230 (for guidance only)$200 - 270 (for guidance only)
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Egyptian Diorite Heart Amulet
Late Period, 664-332 B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £338
A large heart, ib, amulet of classic egg-form with shallow lugs on either side, with flared top and incised lines to one side. 10.7 grams, 31 mm
From an early 20th century collection. Ex London, UK, gallery. From a private UK collection This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato.
According to ancient Egyptian beliefs, the heart (ib) was considered the centre of intelligence, emotions, and behaviour. It was also believed to store an individual's memories. During the Weighing of the Heart ceremony in the afterlife, the heart could speak on behalf of 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. -
Egyptian Hardstone Hair Ring
New Kingdom, 1550-1070 B.C.Estimate: £200 - 300 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £100
Circular with a semi-circular profile and an opening on one side. 3.57 grams, 17 mm
From an early 20th century collection. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato. -
Egyptian Faience and Hardstone Amulet Group
Late-Ptolemaic Period, 664-30 B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £221
Including two wedjat eyes, a seated baboon, plumb bob, uraeus, scarab, falcon, recumbent lion, suckling sow (representing Nut), and a fringe-edged disc bead. 8.08 grams total, 9-18 mm
From an early 20th century collection. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato.
