Egyptian amulet of a papyrus sceptre, Late Dynastic Period, 26th-30th Dynasty, c.664-343 BC
Feldspar
Height: 3.3cm
11059
Charles Ede, London
£ 980.00
Delicate amulet of a papyrus column carved from an attractive green feldspar, a ribbed suspension loop at the top. Intact. The wadj scepter takes the form of a papyrus column....
Delicate amulet of a papyrus column carved from an attractive green feldspar, a ribbed suspension loop at the top. Intact.
The wadj scepter takes the form of a papyrus column. Amongst other associations it gave its wearer eternal youth, whilst the green feldspar evoked fertility and regeneration. Chapters 159 and 160 of the Book of the Dead mentions that an amulet of this appearance was to be placed at the throat of a mummy.
The wadj scepter takes the form of a papyrus column. Amongst other associations it gave its wearer eternal youth, whilst the green feldspar evoked fertility and regeneration. Chapters 159 and 160 of the Book of the Dead mentions that an amulet of this appearance was to be placed at the throat of a mummy.
Provenance
Reportedly exported from Egypt in 1918Joseph Altounian (1890-1954), France; acquired prior to 1937, annex number 266
Altounian was one of the most renowned antique dealers of the 20th century. He kept the company of artists including Auguste Rodin and Pablo Picasso, and posed for Amedeo Modigliani.
Mention of a "box containing 28 amulets of various materials" in the book of goods on December 31, 1921, under number 986, page 16, as well as in the general journal of 1924, page 18. Originally displayed on a moulded tray, with old collection label reading 'ANNEXE No 266'.
Literature
Compare W.M. Flinders Petrie, Amulets (London, 1994) p.12-13, pl.II, no.20f12
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