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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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LOT 0034
Egyptian Lapis Lazuli Amulet of a Djed Pillar
Sold for (Inc. bp): £585
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Egyptian Stone Tyet Amulet
Third Intermediate Period-Late Period, circa 743-332 B.C.Estimate: £1,500 - 2,000 (‡+bp*)
Opening Bid: £750
Finely carved tyet amulet with incised internal detailing and ribbed suspension loop at the top. 38.9 grams, 81 mm
Acquired in the mid 1980s-1990s. Private collection, Switzerland, thence by descent. Private collection, since the late 1990s.
The tyet amulet was associated with the goddess Isis and was often referred to as the 'knot' or 'girdle' of Isis. Some believe that it represents a bandage used to absorb menstrual blood. It was commonly placed within the mummy wrappings on the upper torso of the deceased, with the belief that it would invoke Isis' protection and safeguard the body, thus ensuring their rebirth in the afterlife. -
Egyptian Silver Cat Amulet
Late Period, 664-332 B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £416
Seated figure of a cat with deeply set eyes and pointed ears set on a rectangular base with a rounded end; suspension loop on the back. 0.33 grams, 8 mm
From an early 20th century collection.
The cat was sacred to Bastet, a protective mother goddess and the daughter of the sun god Re. Amulets provided the wearer with the goddess's protection. -
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Egyptian Blue-Glazed Faience White Lotus Chalice
New Kingdom-Third Intermediate Period, 1315-945 B.C.Estimate: £5,000 - 7,000 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £2,500
The lotiform cup modelled as an open lotus flower with incised petal detailing to the outer face, short stem and flared foot; some restoration. 205 grams, 12 cm
Acquired 1970s-1996. Property of a North American collector. London collection, 2016. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.12100-214087.
Faience chalices shaped like the flowers of the white lotus (Nymphaea albicans) first appeared in the 18th Dynasty, and are thought to be drinking vessels.
