Egyptian Pre-Dynastic Greywacke Palette

Circular in plan with smoothed faces, pierced through the edge. 238 grams, 13.3 cm



Acquired in the mid 1980s-1990s. Private collection, Switzerland, thence by descent. Private collection, since the late 1990s.

Palettes were utilitarian objects used in the Predynastic Period to grind and mix mineral-based eye pigments (including ochre, malachite, and haematite). Greywacke cosmetic palettes were easily carved in various shapes and sizes, including zoomorphic representations and geometric forms. The symbolism of this circular palette may be connected to the sun disc, which featured prominently in ancient Egyptian culture. The palette was so significant in Predynastic society that purely ceremonial versions, often impractically large for their original purpose, were produced for use in temple rituals. The most famous is the highly decorated Narmer Palette discovered at Hierakonpolis.

A typical mummiform figure with moulded facial detailing, a lappet wig, and hands holding a pick and hoe, the back with a possible hieratic inscription, mounted on a custom-made stand with label 'Ancient Egypt / (26th Dyn - Ptolem.) / circa 664-332 BC / Turquoise Faience / Ushabti Figure'. 91 grams total, 13 cm high including stand



Ex old UK collection. Acquired from Cestrian Antiques, Chester, UK, 2002. Ex Pemberton collection, Wales, UK. Accompanied by old information labels with collection reference C.234. Accompanied by the original Cestrian Antiques invoice.

Bust of Osiris modelled in the round, wearing the white crown with uraeus to the brow, plaited false beard, tiered collar with counterweight to rear; the hands opposed at the chest, holding the nekhakha flail and the heka crook; the eyes with glass inserts; mounted on a custom-made stand. 850 grams total, 35 cm high including stand



Ex R. Liechti (1934-2010) collection, Geneva, Switzerland. Private collection, Europe. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.12365-226680.

Osiris is a deity who represents death and fertility and is commonly regarded as the quintessential god of rebirth. Though he was once a mortal ruler, as a deceased entity, his domain was the Underworld. Abydos was the primary centre of Osiris’ cult, where a renowned yearly celebration of the god was held. The proliferation of bronze statues of the god indicates his widespread popularity. 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.