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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.
ProvenancePrivate collection of Mr K.A.
Private collection, Europe, 26 June 2009.
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.
FootnotesThis 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.
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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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Large Egyptian Blue Glazed Hieroglyphic Shabti
26th Dynasty, 664-525 B.C.Estimate: £1,200 - 1,700 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £667
Of mummiform type, wearing a tripartite wig and long plaited divine beard, with arms crossed and the left hand holding a pick, the right hand holding a hoe and the cord of a seed bag hanging over his left shoulder, with carefully rendered cosmetic lines around the eyes, narrow eyebrows, and slightly smiling lips giving it a serene expression characteristic of the finest ushabtis of the period; standing on an integral plinth from which a plain back pillar terminating at the base of the wig extends; six horizontal rows of hieroglyphic inscription, the Sixth Chapter of the Book of the Dead; water worn and repaired. 248 grams, 18.5 cm
Acquired on the German art market, 1989-1995. with The Museum Gallery, 19 Bury Place, London, WC1, UK, 1998-2003. Property of a London based academic, 2003-present. -
Egyptian Brown Quartzite Baboon Animal Figurine
New Kingdom, circa 1550-1070 B.C.Estimate: £6,000 - 8,000 (‡+bp*)
Opening Bid: £3,000
Carved in a typical pose, sitting on its haunches with its tail curving around the right side, its front paws resting on its knees and protruding beneath its thick furry pelt, with incised detailing, its feet either side of the phallus, the head with bulbous, striated hair on either side, chipped, snout restored; seated on a high shrine-shaped plinth with squared front and rounded back, featuring a cavetto cornice and roll detailing on the upper part. 1.15 kg, 15 cm
From a deceased American estate, 1970-1989. with Bonham's, London, 28 October 2009, no.35. Accompanied by copies of the relevant Bonham's catalogue pages. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by a search certificate number no.12368-226706.
The baboon was an animal manifestation of the god Thoth, who was revered for his association with knowledge, writing, and healing. -
Egyptian Lapis Lazuli Amulet of a Djed Pillar
New Kingdom, 18th Dynasty, circa 1550-1295 B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £585
Carved as a square-section column with transverse ribs and a decorative finial, incised transverse lines to the body; mounted on a custom-made display stand. 4.84 grams, 49 mm (8.6 grams total, 64 mm including stand)
Ex R. Liechti (1934-2010) collection, Geneva, Switzerland. Private collection, Europe.
The djed pillar signifies the concepts of 'enduring' and 'stability' and was a common funerary amulet from the Old Kingdom onwards. It was first associated with the gods Ptah and Sokar but later became a symbol of Osiris, representing the god's backbone. In this context, the djed pillar appears in Chapter 155 of the Book of the Dead, concerned with the deceased's resurrection. R. Liechti was a distinguished collector of Egyptian antiquities, known for his discerning eye and passion for ancient artefacts. Active during the mid-20th century, Liechti's collection featured a wide range of objects that showcased the rich cultural heritage of ancient Egypt, from intricately carved statuettes to rare amulets and jewellery. His dedication to preserving and studying these relics earned him a respected reputation among scholars and collectors alike. Many pieces from his collection have since found their way into prominent museum collections and auction houses, further solidifying his legacy in the world of antiquities.
