Loading, please wait...
Details
LOT 0093
Gnostic Epigraphic Gemstone
3RD-5TH CENTURY A.D.
1/2 in. (1.25 grams, 14 mm).
An engraved gemstone with a stylised image of Harpocrates, depicted as a naked child with a finger raised on his mouth, seated on a lotus flower in a boat, groups of wild animals arranged in threes surrounding; the other side with a magic inscription in Greek letters 'I, E, A, P, Φ, K, Ο, Γ'.
Provenance
Acquired before 1988.
Ex family collection, by descent, Geneva.
Literature
See Sfameni, C., 'Magic in Late Antiquity: the evidence of magical gems' in Late Antique Archaeology, Volume: 6 Issues: 1, 2010, pp.435-473, fig.6, for a gem intaglio with similar feature.
Footnotes
Egyptian deities are often represented on magical gems. One of the most interesting figures is the image of Harpocrates seated on a lotus flower, called ‘the young sun’. This figure had a solar nature and a protective function.
CONDITIONVETTING:
TimeLine 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:
TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.
RELATED LOTS
-
Roman Drapery from a Life-Size Statue
1st-2nd century A.D. or laterSold for (Inc. bp): £975
A bronze drapery fragment modelling the folds of the fabric in relief, presumably once forming part of a larger statue; mounted on a custom-made display stand. 3.1 kg total, 42.2 cm high including stand
Acquired 1980s-early 1990s. Ex private German collection. English private collection. -
Roman Glass Janus Head Flask
Circa 3rd century A.D.Estimate: £150 - 200 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £75
A mould-blown glass flask formed as two addorsed heads with a flaring cylindrical neck and mouth; both heads with very similar detailing to the hair and face; restored. 41 grams, 99 mm high
Acquired 1969-1999. London collection of the late Mr S.M., thence by descent. -
Roman Translucent Unguentarium
1st-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £72
A clear glass unguentarium with a pear-shaped body, tubular neck and rolled rim; iridescent surfaces. 35 grams, 13.5 cm high
French collection, 1960s-early 2000s. From an important Paris gallery, France.
