Antiquities, Islamic, and Contemporary Middle Eastern Art: Featuring Selections from the Dr. Mohammed Said Farsi Collection

AN EGYPTIAN FAIENCE AMULET DEPICTING THE TRIAD OF GODS, LATE PERIOD TO PTOLEMAIC PERIOD, 664-30 B.C.

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Start price: £1,200

Estimated price: £1,500 - £2,000

Auction house commission: 25%

VAT: On commission only

This intriguing amulet, crafted from faience, portrays a triad of Egyptian gods, a common theme in ancient Egyptian religious artifacts. The amulet features three standing figures, each finely detailed despite the small scale. The central figure appears to represent a child deity, possibly Horus the Child (Harpokrates), flanked by protective figures, likely representing deities such as Isis and Nephthys or possibly the sons of Horus, associated with protection and the afterlife.

The figures are depicted standing on a rectangular base, with a large loop at the top of the amulet, indicating that it was likely worn as a pendant. The surface of the amulet shows signs of age, with the characteristic glaze of the faience in shades of green and blue, though some areas have faded or worn away over time.

The amulet reflects the importance of divine protection and the role of these deities in safeguarding the wearer, especially in the context of the afterlife. Such amulets were common in burial practices, intended to ensure the deceased’s safe passage and well-being in the next world.

Provenance: Private UK collection. 

H: 4.2cm, W: 2.2cm