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Details

LOT 0017

Egyptian Jasper Lion-Headed Cobra Amulet in Gold Frame

6TH CENTURY B.C.

3/4 in. (2 grams, 18 mm).

The S-curved body resting on a tongue-shaped based, detailed hood, and delicate details to the head of a lioness; wrapped in a gold frame with suspension loop.

Provenance

Private collection of Mr K.A.
Private collection, Europe, 26 June 2009.

Literature

Cf. Reisner, G.A., Catalogue général des antiquités égyptiennes du Musée du Caire, Nos.12528-13595, Vol. II, Amulets, Cairo, 1958, p.115 (no. CG13434) and pl.XVII, for a similar example in opaque red glass.

Footnotes

This amulet likely represents a goddess, either Sekhmet or Wadjet. Sekhmet is typically depicted as a lioness or lion-headed woman, while Wadjet appears in the form of a cobra. The lion-headed cobra form can be an allusion to the uraeus, worn on the crowns of royalty and deities for protection.

CONDITION

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AUCTIONS:

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LOT 0017

Egyptian Jasper Lion-Headed Cobra Amulet in Gold Frame

Estimate £2,000 - 3,000€2,320 - 3,480 (for guidance only)$2,700 - 4,050 (for guidance only)

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