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LOT 0041
Egyptian Silver Isis Amulet
LATE PERIOD, 664-332 B.C.
1 1/2 in. (2 1/2 in.) (6.2 grams, 39 mm (20.7 grams total, 62 mm including stand)).
Isis enthroned wearing a cow's horn headdress with a solar disc, suckling the infant Horus on her lap; loop to rear of crown; mounted on a custom-made stand. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceEx Mythes & Legend.
Ex Cohen collection 2011.
Property of a French collector.
Cf. Andrews, C., Amulets of Ancient Egypt, London, 1994, item 18(a).
FootnotesIn ancient Egyptian mythology, Isis was the sister-wife of Osiris and the mother of the sky god Horus. She is associated with aspects of fertility and motherhood and is often depicted in various artworks seated in a nursing pose with her son Horus on her lap, as here.
CONDITIONTimeLine Auctions follows a vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process
AUCTIONS:
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Egyptian Blue Faience Pataikos Amulet Pair
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Acquired on the German art market, 1989-1995. with The Museum Gallery, 19 Bury Place, London, WC1, UK, 1998-2003. Property of a London based academic, 2003-present.
Pataikos is a representation of the creator deity Ptah, and his diminutive form is a symbol of his immense magical power. -
Egyptian Silver Poppy Head Amulet
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With bulb and disc finial, integral shank and gusseted suspension loop. 1.03 grams, 17 mm
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Egyptian Silver Fly Amulet
Late Period, 664-332 B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £338
Pendant formed as a fly with domed eyes. 1.13 grams, 16 mm
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Considering Egyptian artists often depicted fly whisks in the hands of pharaohs and high officials, one might assume that flies were simply a nuisance. However, the Egyptians held flies in high regard due to their quick speed, reactions, and persistence. Small fly amulets were made from various materials, including gold, silver, lapis lazuli, carnelian, amethyst, faience, and bone. They were believed to protect against insect bites and ward off flying creatures through apotropaic magic. Additionally, the pharaoh would give gold fly-shaped pendants as military awards to recognise the bravery and persistence of soldiers in battle.