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LOT 0453
Large Egyptian Steatite Scarab
LATE PERIOD, 664-332 B.C.
1 1/2 in. (19.8 grams, 38 mm).
Modelled body of a beetle with detailed carapace and legs; underside with two crocodiles enclosing a central sun disc flanked by two papyrus clumps atop neb signs.
ProvenanceFrom the collection of a gentleman, acquired on the London art market in the 1990s.
This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato.
Cf. Petrie, W.M.F., Button and Design Scarabs, London, 1925, pl. XIV, nos. 899-901, for scarabs featuring the two-crocodile design.
FootnotesThe design could be interpreted as ‘Sobek-Ra, lord of the Delta’. Sobek was mainly associated with water, fertility, and the Nile, as well as strength and military prowess. His worship spans much of ancient Egyptian history, from at least the Old Kingdom to the Roman period, and he was honoured not only as a force of nature but also as a god of healing, protection, and royal authority. He was associated with various other deities, most often with the sun god in the form of Sobek-Ra. His primary cult centres were situated in the Faiyum region, especially in the city of Crocodilopolis, and also at Kom Ombo in Upper Egypt.
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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Opening Bid: £100
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According to ancient Egyptian beliefs, the heart (ib) was considered to be the centre of intelligence, emotions, and behaviour. The heart was also believed to store an individual's memories. During the Weighing of the Heart ceremony in the afterlife, the heart could speak up for the deceased and account for their lifetime of actions before Osiris. For this reason, heart amulets were placed on the mummy to safeguard the organ and ensure a favourable outcome during judgment. -
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Acquired in the mid 1980s-1990s. Private collection, Switzerland, thence by descent. Private collection, since the late 1990s. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D’Amato. This lot is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato. -
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Opening Bid: £125
Ellipsoid pendant enclosing a scarab with underside exposed, incused design including a winged gryphon and uraeus; with a museum-quality impression. 3.61 grams, 15 mm
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