Egyptian Jasper Lion-Headed Cobra Amulet in Gold Frame. New Kingdom, circa 1550-1070 B.C. The S-curved body resting on a tongue-shaped based, detailed hood, and delicate details to the head of a lioness; wrapped in a gold frame with suspension loop. Cf. Reisner, G.A., Catalogue général des antiquités égyptiennes du Musée du Caire, Nos.12528-13595, Vol. II, Amulets, Cairo, 1958, p.115, (no. CG13434) and pl.XVII, for a similar example in opaque red glass. 2 grams, 18 mm (3/4 in.). (For this specific lot, 5% import VAT is applicable on the hammer price.)
Private collection of Mr K.A. Private collection, Europe, 26 June 2009. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by a search certificate number no.12590-232325. This lot has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database, and is accompanied by an illustrated lot declaration signed by the Head of the Antiquities Department, Dr Raffaele D'Amato.
This amulet likely represents a goddess, either Sekhmet or Wadjet. Sekhmet is typically depicted as a lioness or lion-headed woman, while Wadjet appears in the form of a cobra. The lion-headed cobra form can be an allusion to the uraeus, worn on the crowns of royalty and deities for protection.
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Starting price | 1'600 GBP |
Estimate | 1'800 GBP |