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Details
LOT 0034
Egyptian Lapis Lazuli Amulet of a Djed Pillar
NEW KINGDOM, 18TH DYNASTY, CIRCA 1550-1295 B.C.
2 in. (2 1/2 in.) (4.84 grams, 49 mm (8.6 grams total, 64 mm including stand)).
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.
Provenance
Ex R. Liechti (1934-2010) collection, Geneva, Switzerland.
Private collection, Europe.
Literature
Cf. National Museums Liverpool, accession no.M11918a, for a later example in lapis lazuli.
Footnotes
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.
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