Phoenician Bead with Faces

A finely carved carnelian scarab (Scarabaeus sacer) modelled naturalistically in the round with anatomical detailing to the carapace, head, legs and underside of the body; slightly domed profile; drilled laterally to the underside of the body for suspension. 3.07 grams, 19 mm

Fine condition.

From an early 20th century Home Counties collection. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.114474-196152.

The Egyptians saw the scarab as a symbol of renewal and rebirth. The beetle was associated with the sun god because scarabs roll large balls of dung in which to lay their eggs, a behavior that the Egyptians thought resembled the progression of the sun through the sky from east to west. Scarab amulets were used for their magical rejuvenating properties by both the living and the dead. The regenerative powers of scarabs such as the one offered here could be used by either the living or the dead for healing and protection. The striking red/orange colour of the carnelian stone used to produce this amulet strengthens its solar associations.

A fragment of a greywacke cosmetic spoon, shaped as a fish with finely worked features and incised eye, scales, gill, and fin detailing; the underside is recessed to create the spoon bowl; accompanied by a custom-made display stand. 27 grams, 58 mm wide (50 grams total, 85 mm high including stand)

Fine condition.

Acquired in the 1980s. From a French collection.

A wooden mask with remains of polychrome painted detailing, depicting the large part of a face with eye detailing and remains of segmented headwear; old collection number 'E.352' and a later suspension loop to the reverse. 283 grams, 23.5 cm high



Ex Roger Liechti collection, Geneva, Switzerland. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.11606-198998.