EGYPTIAN FAIENCE AMULET OF PATAIKOS

Ca. 664-332 BC
A rich vibrant blue faience amulet of the Egyptian dwarf god Pataikos. The figure is shown nude, crouching with his legs apart on top of a square base. Pataikos holds his hands to either side of the protruding belly. A groove along the chest and abdomen to the navel. Well-shaped facial features, with a line incised at the limit of the shaven hair. No back pillar. Legs and arms in open-work. Grooved loop for suspension to the back of the neck. Ptah the Dwarf, also known under the Greek name Pataikos, was considered a protector of children. For another example, cf. Petrie Museum catalogue UC52692.
Size: L:41.8mm / W:16.1mm ; 5.18g
Provenance: From the collection of a London gentleman; formerly acquired in early 2000s; previously in 1970s UK collection.
Estimate: GBP 400 - 600