Egyptian Multi-Stranded Mummy Bead Necklace

Hollow-formed figure modelled in the half-round with left arm raised and right arm bent carrying a vessel; piled hairstyle with lunar motif above; hole to the reverse. 220 grams, 19.5 cm



The Erotica Collection Christian von Faber-Castell, Küsnacgt ZH, Switzerland, since the late 1970s. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D’Amato.

Christian von Faber-Castell (born 1950) is a renowned German entrepreneur and art collector, best known as a member of the prominent Faber-Castell family, famed for their iconic writing instruments. A passionate advocate for art and culture, Christian von Faber-Castell curated an extensive and diverse private collection of erotica, spanning centuries and cultures. His collection reflects a deep appreciation for the interplay of beauty, sensuality, and artistic expression, bringing together rare and unique works that explore themes of intimacy and human connection. Pieces from this collection have been featured in notable exhibitions and are celebrated for their artistic and historical significance. This offering represents a rare opportunity to acquire works from one of the most fascinating and eclectic private collections of its kind.

Pale green transparent glass hoop with ellipsoid bezel, bevelled edge inlaid with a darker glass low-relief facing mask of the goddess Hathor with cow's ears and banded hairstyle. 17.65 grams, 39.43 mm overall, 20.51 mm internal diameter (approximate size British J, USA 4 3/4, Europe 8.69, Japan 8)



Acquired between 1965-2020. Private collection, London. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.12484-229828. This lot has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database, and is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D’Amato.

Images of Hathor with a human face and cow ears combine her human and bovine aspects. She is shown with a serene human face, symbolising her nurturing nature, while the cow ears emphasise her roles in fertility and motherhood. Hathor was one of the most important deities in ancient Egypt, revered as the goddess of love, beauty, music, dance, fertility, and motherhood. She was also associated with joy, childbirth, and women’s health. Hathor was believed to protect and nurture, often depicted as a maternal figure. As such, she was closely linked with Isis. She was closely linked to the sun god Ra, acting as a cosmic force facilitating life. In funerary contexts, Hathor was also seen as a guide for the dead, helping them transition to the afterlife. Her multifaceted role made her one of Egypt's most widely worshipped goddesses.

Figure of a crocodile modelled in the round with pierced suspension lug. 0.49 grams, 15 mm



From an early 20th century collection. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D’Amato.

Crocodile amulets were worn for protective purposes to guard against dangerous creatures.