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LOT 0489
Egyptian Steatite Scarab with Thoth Standing
NEW KINGDOM-LATE PERIOD, 1550-332 B.C.
1/2 in. (1.65 grams, 14 mm).
Underside with standing figure of Thoth facing the symbol for the goddess Neith.
ProvenanceEx North London gentleman's collection, 1990s.
Property of a Cambridgeshire, UK, gentleman.
Thoth was revered for his association with knowledge, writing, and healing. In a funerary context, Thoth was probably linked to his role as the recorder of the final judgment, which determined whether the deceased had lived a life of virtue. A positive report ensured the rebirth of the deceased in the eternal Afterlife.
Neith was a prominent deity in ancient Egyptian mythology, revered as a warrior and mother goddess. Her cult gained significant importance during the Ramesside dynasties when she became closely associated with the sun god. Neith was known for her fierce protection and maternal guidance.
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Egyptian Faience Wadj Amulet
Late Period, 664-332 B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £468
Square-section wadj papyrus stalk amulet surmounted by a ram's head wearing the Atef crown; the front inscribed with ankh (life) and renpet (year) hieroglyphs. 1.92 grams, 39 mm
From the collection of Doctor Girard, a collector for over 60 years. with Hotel des Ventes de Clermont-Ferrand, 22 May 2017. Property of a French collector.
The papyrus column or wadj amulet is typically made out of turquoise feldspar or faience, as is prescribed in the Book of the Dead. The word wadj, meaning “green”, evokes concepts of well-being and vitality. Papyrus amulets were often placed around the neck of the deceased to ensure eternal youth in the afterlife. The ram's head is associated with the god Amun and the Atef crown with Osiris, ruler of the Underworld. -
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Egyptian Stone Head
Coptic, circa 6th century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £975
Stylised face with broad surrounding hood with corrugated texture to the outer face; lentoid face with reserved almond eyes, D-section nose and slit mouth; with arc of drilled holes around the inner edge of the hood to accept inset ornaments, more holes to the forehead, eyes, cheeks and chin; mounted on a custom-made stand. 2.92 kg total, 29 cm wide including stand
From a collection acquired on the UK art market from various auction houses and collections mostly before 2000. From an important Cambridgeshire estate; thence by descent. -
Egyptian Faience Amulet Group
Late Period, 664-332 B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £247
Comprising a resting lioness on a rectangular base and the god Thoth in baboon form. 1.30 grams total, 12-15 mm
From the collection of Doctor Girard, a collector for over 60 years. with Hotel des Ventes de Clermont-Ferrand, 22 May 2017. Property of a French collector.
Throughout ancient Egyptian mythology, lioness goddesses played a significant role in the religious beliefs of the people. These goddesses, including Sekhmet, Bastet, and Wadjet were revered as powerful and fierce protectors. Their presence was believed to ward off evil and safeguard the people from harm. The baboon was an animal manifestation of the god Thoth. Thoth was revered for his association with knowledge, writing, and healing. It is likely that the popularity of Thoth amulets as mummy amulets is linked to his role as the recorder of the final judgment, which determined whether the deceased had lived a life of virtue.
