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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.
ProvenanceEx R. Liechti (1934-2010) collection, Geneva, Switzerland.
Private collection, Europe.
Cf. National Museums Liverpool, accession no.M11918a, for a later example in lapis lazuli.
FootnotesThe 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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AUCTIONS:
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Egyptian Gold Cobra Amulet
Late Period, 664-332 B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £195
Depicting a rearing cobra with incised detailing and a suspension loop behind the head. 0.17 grams, 11 mm
From the private collection of the late Mrs Belinda Ellison, a long time member of the Egyptian Exploration Society, c.1940-2020. -
Egyptian Steatite and Faience Scarab Group
Late Period, 664-332 B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £208
Their bases decorated with hieroglyphs and figures, including one with the motto 'Amun lord of the Two Lands', another with the motto 'lord Ramesses beloved of Amun', and one with a detailed representation of a Nile tilapia fish. 8.68 grams total, 7-21 mm
From an early 20th century collection. -
Egyptian Bronze Statue of a Kneeling Priest
Late Period, 664-332 B.C.Estimate: £250 - 350 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £139
Kneeling on a rectangular platform with a wide apron covering his thighs, clean-shaven head and hands raised in adoration; tang on the underside for attachment; mounted on a display stand. 41 grams total, statue: 30 mm high
From an early 20th century Home Counties, UK, collection.
Priest figurines like this were commonly placed before a larger figurine of a deity, both attached to a base, e.g., Schulz, R., Seidel, M., Egyptian Art. The Walters Art Museum, London, 2009, for a kneeling priest before a standing figure of Anubis.
