Egyptian Horus Amulet

Comprising a group of crumb-decorated polychrome oblate beads and a centrepiece pendant formed as a stylised bearded head. 179 grams total, 12-42 mm



From the collection of a gentleman, acquired on the London art market in the 1990s.

The Phoenicians, renowned seafarers and traders, were also skilled glassworkers. They produced a wide variety of glass beads using core-forming and winding techniques, with vivid colours and elaborate designs that reflect both technical mastery and cross-cultural influence. Among the most iconic Phoenician beads are glass 'head' beads, crafted in the form of stylised human or mythological faces. Typically, they feature exaggerated facial details like bulging eyes, large noses, beards, and headdresses, often with expressive or comic features. They were possibly worn as amulets to ward off evil or attract protection, though they may also represent deities, ancestors, or foreigners. These beads often incorporate Egyptian, Greek, and Near Eastern stylistic elements, reflecting the Phoenicians’ extensive trade networks.

Modelled in the round, shown nude, seated with his left arm by his side and his right forefinger on his chin, wearing a sidelock of youth, nemes headdress surmounted by an elaborate hem-hem crown; mounted on a custom-made stand with dealer's label to underside. 480 grams total, 19.8 cm including stand



Ex Fitzthum collection, Vermont, New England. Acquired New York, USA, 2000. Acquired from Royal Athena Galleries, New York, USA, 20 March 2008. Ex Keane collection, UK. Accompanied by a copy of the original Royal Athena Galleries invoice no.11164. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.13272-252852.

Harpocrates is the Greek equivalent of the Egyptian name Hor-pa-khered, which means ‘Horus the Child’. This name refers to Horus as the divine infant of Isis and Osiris. Wearing an amulet of Harpocrates was believed to provide the same protection that Isis granted to her beloved son. Larger bronze statuettes were probably votive offerings to Harpocrates, intended to secure his favour and protection.

Group consisting of scarabs, scaraboid and other types, some with hieroglyphs on the underside, including the cartouche of Amenhotep II (Akheperure) with the legend "Beloved of Amun". 15.71 grams total, 13-19 mm



From the collection of a gentleman, acquired on the London art market in the 1990s.