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LOT 0429
Egyptian Terracotta Ithyphallic Figurine of a Seated Male
PTOLEMAIC PERIOD, 2ND-1ST CENTURY B.C.
2 1/2 in. (64 grams, 63 mm).
Representing a hunchback in a crouched position, leaning against his emphasised phallus and resting a triangular harp on it. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceThe 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.
Cf. Ross, T., ‘Egyptian Late Period figures in terracotta and limestone’ in Villing, A., Beregeron, M., Bourogiannis, G., Johnston, A., Leclere, F., Masson, A., Ross, T., Naukratis, Greeks in Egypt, London, 2015, pp.1-79, figs.102,016-107, for a similar ithyphallic Harpocrates.
FootnotesFrom the 4th century B.C. onwards, small-scale sculptures developed into a rich repertoire of grotesque types. These so-called grotesques were an enhancement of the Hellenistic interest in the human body and its weakness and imperfections by depicting disfigured individuals. According to some scholars, terracotta (and bronze) figurines of this kind were life-like representations of beggars and others who gathered at big feasts in temples or at the houses of the wealthy. In the latter case, they indicated the importance and wealth of the host as the more beggars an event attracted, the greater the fortune of the event organiser. By implication, the bronze and terracotta portraits of these marginal people could have become symbols and charms of good luck that would have been placed in private houses.
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.
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LOT 0429
Egyptian Terracotta Ithyphallic Figurine of a Seated Male
Sold for (Inc. bp): £143
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Egyptian Limestone Relief Fishing Scene
Saite Period, 664-525 B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £13,000
Irregular fragment of a low-relief frieze showing the hips and legs of two standing figures: left, torso with short kilt gathered at the waist and portions of legs below, body of a fish behind with long dorsal and ventral fins, small tail; right, torso of a figure similarly clad with right forearm and hand gripping a fishing line and upper portion of a fish attached; applied red-maroon pigment to skin areas; mounted in an old stand. 675 grams, 23 cm wide including stand
Private collection, Europe. with Sotheby's, London, July 1991, no.162. Acquired by the current owner from the above. Accompanied by a copy of the relevant Sotheby's catalogue pages. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by a search certificate number no.12585-232180. 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.
The crisp and detailed carving and colour palette are reminiscent of reliefs from the grand Theban tomb of Montuemhat, Mayor and Fourth Priest of Amun (circa 700-650 B.C.). -
Egyptian Faience Bead Necklace String
Late Period, 664-332 B.C.Sold for (Inc. bp): £52
Comprising tubular beads with interstitial annular beads connecting. 5.11 grams, 70 cm
From an old English collection. Acquired from Helios Gallery, 2011. Ian Wilkinson collection, Nottinghamshire, UK, formed since 1985. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D’Amato. -
Phoenician Steatite Multi-Bodied Astarte Amulet
Circa 6th century B.C.Estimate: £100 - 140 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £50
Carved as three radiating figures with conical headdress; the hair, limbs and other features shared by the three separate personae; pierced for suspension. 1.70 grams, 23 mm
From the collection of Mr S.M., London, UK, formed from 1969-1999. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D’Amato.
