Ancient Egypt, Third Intermediate Period Lapis Lazuli Amulet - 3.5 cm
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Selected by Ruth Garrido Vila
Directed the Ifergan Collection Museum, specialising in Phoenician and Mediterranean archaeology.
Estimate € 430 - € 500
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Description from the seller
Ancient Egyptian Lapis Lazuli Amulet – Possibly Depicting the Lion-Headed Goddess Sekhmet
Third Intermediate Period to Late Period, Dynasties 21–26 (ca. 1070–525 BC)
An exceptionally attractive ancient Egyptian lapis lazuli amulet carved in the form of a standing anthropomorphic female figure, possibly depicting the lion-headed goddess Sekhmet, one of the most powerful and venerated deities of the Egyptian pantheon. The figure is rendered in a highly stylised and compact manner, displaying the characteristic features associated with Egyptian amuletic sculpture of the Third Intermediate and Late Periods. The head exhibits a pronounced projecting muzzle and rounded leonine contours, while the body presents subtly indicated female breasts and a short, pleated garment extending to the knees.
The figure stands frontally upon an integral rectangular base and is supported by a dorsal pillar, a feature commonly encountered in Egyptian divine statuary and amuletic representations. A transverse perforation passing through the sides of the figure indicates that the piece was intended for suspension and use as a personal devotional amulet, probably worn on a necklace or incorporated into a larger assemblage of protective charms.
Although the absence of attributes such as a sun disk or uraeus precludes a definitive identification, the leonine head, feminine anatomy and general iconography strongly suggest an association with Sekhmet, the lion-headed goddess of divine power, warfare, healing and protection. Throughout Egyptian history, Sekhmet occupied a central role as both a destructive and benevolent force, capable of inflicting disease yet equally invoked for healing and magical protection. Amulets representing her image were highly esteemed and believed to confer the goddess's protective qualities upon their owners.
The choice of lapis lazuli is particularly significant. Among the ancient Egyptians, lapis lazuli was one of the most prized and symbolically charged materials, imported at great expense from distant eastern sources. Its intense celestial blue colour was closely associated with the heavens, rebirth, divine flesh and the eternal realm of the gods. Consequently, objects carved from lapis lazuli were often reserved for amulets and ritual objects of considerable religious importance.
The present amulet retains an exceptionally appealing archaeological surface. Extensive dark mineral accretions and ancient burial deposits remain preserved throughout the recessed areas and across portions of the figure, contrasting beautifully with the surviving deep blue coloration of the stone. These age-related encrustations significantly enhance the object's authenticity, archaeological character and visual appeal.
On stylistic and typological grounds, the piece may plausibly be attributed to the Third Intermediate to Late Period, Dynasties 21–26 (ca. 1070–525 BC).
Material: Lapis lazuli with ancient mineral deposits and burial encrustations.
Dimensions: Approximately 3.5 cm in height.
Condition: Very good overall condition. Surface wear, minor abrasions, ancient mineral accretions and burial deposits are present throughout. Minor losses are entirely consistent with great age and prolonged interment.
Provenance:
Acquired from Harmer Rooke Numismatists Ltd., United States.
A particularly charming and uncommon Egyptian lapis lazuli amulet, preserving remarkable archaeological character and possibly representing the lion-headed goddess Sekhmet, one of ancient Egypt's most revered and enduring protective deities.
Seller's Story
Archaeologia Antiqua Gallery has over 20 years of experience in the acquisition and study of archaeological antiquities and ancient fine art, sourced from renowned U.S. and international fine art galleries, established private collections, and specialized dealers.
Each lot offered is selected with the utmost care and evaluated individually, with particular attention to documented provenance, collection history, and legal acquisition in accordance with international standards and regulations.
Our focus is on objects with a clear and verifiable collecting history, often originating from old European and international collections, and handled with a scholarly and responsible approach.
We are committed to transparency, accuracy in descriptions, and the preservation of cultural heritage, offering collectors pieces that reflect historical significance, authenticity, and long-term value.
Ancient Egyptian Lapis Lazuli Amulet – Possibly Depicting the Lion-Headed Goddess Sekhmet
Third Intermediate Period to Late Period, Dynasties 21–26 (ca. 1070–525 BC)
An exceptionally attractive ancient Egyptian lapis lazuli amulet carved in the form of a standing anthropomorphic female figure, possibly depicting the lion-headed goddess Sekhmet, one of the most powerful and venerated deities of the Egyptian pantheon. The figure is rendered in a highly stylised and compact manner, displaying the characteristic features associated with Egyptian amuletic sculpture of the Third Intermediate and Late Periods. The head exhibits a pronounced projecting muzzle and rounded leonine contours, while the body presents subtly indicated female breasts and a short, pleated garment extending to the knees.
The figure stands frontally upon an integral rectangular base and is supported by a dorsal pillar, a feature commonly encountered in Egyptian divine statuary and amuletic representations. A transverse perforation passing through the sides of the figure indicates that the piece was intended for suspension and use as a personal devotional amulet, probably worn on a necklace or incorporated into a larger assemblage of protective charms.
Although the absence of attributes such as a sun disk or uraeus precludes a definitive identification, the leonine head, feminine anatomy and general iconography strongly suggest an association with Sekhmet, the lion-headed goddess of divine power, warfare, healing and protection. Throughout Egyptian history, Sekhmet occupied a central role as both a destructive and benevolent force, capable of inflicting disease yet equally invoked for healing and magical protection. Amulets representing her image were highly esteemed and believed to confer the goddess's protective qualities upon their owners.
The choice of lapis lazuli is particularly significant. Among the ancient Egyptians, lapis lazuli was one of the most prized and symbolically charged materials, imported at great expense from distant eastern sources. Its intense celestial blue colour was closely associated with the heavens, rebirth, divine flesh and the eternal realm of the gods. Consequently, objects carved from lapis lazuli were often reserved for amulets and ritual objects of considerable religious importance.
The present amulet retains an exceptionally appealing archaeological surface. Extensive dark mineral accretions and ancient burial deposits remain preserved throughout the recessed areas and across portions of the figure, contrasting beautifully with the surviving deep blue coloration of the stone. These age-related encrustations significantly enhance the object's authenticity, archaeological character and visual appeal.
On stylistic and typological grounds, the piece may plausibly be attributed to the Third Intermediate to Late Period, Dynasties 21–26 (ca. 1070–525 BC).
Material: Lapis lazuli with ancient mineral deposits and burial encrustations.
Dimensions: Approximately 3.5 cm in height.
Condition: Very good overall condition. Surface wear, minor abrasions, ancient mineral accretions and burial deposits are present throughout. Minor losses are entirely consistent with great age and prolonged interment.
Provenance:
Acquired from Harmer Rooke Numismatists Ltd., United States.
A particularly charming and uncommon Egyptian lapis lazuli amulet, preserving remarkable archaeological character and possibly representing the lion-headed goddess Sekhmet, one of ancient Egypt's most revered and enduring protective deities.
Seller's Story
Archaeologia Antiqua Gallery has over 20 years of experience in the acquisition and study of archaeological antiquities and ancient fine art, sourced from renowned U.S. and international fine art galleries, established private collections, and specialized dealers.
Each lot offered is selected with the utmost care and evaluated individually, with particular attention to documented provenance, collection history, and legal acquisition in accordance with international standards and regulations.
Our focus is on objects with a clear and verifiable collecting history, often originating from old European and international collections, and handled with a scholarly and responsible approach.
We are committed to transparency, accuracy in descriptions, and the preservation of cultural heritage, offering collectors pieces that reflect historical significance, authenticity, and long-term value.
Details
Culture
Ancient Egypt, Third Intermediate Period
Century/timeframe
1075-525 BC
Name of object
Amulet
Acquired from
Auction house
Year acquired
1978
Material
Lapis Lazuli
Country acquired from
United States
Condition
Good
Previous owner acquired from
Auction house
Height
3.5 cm
Previous owner - year acquired
1978
Width
0.7 cm
Previous owner - country acquired from
Egypt
Depth
2 cm
I verify that I have obtained this object legally and that I am allowed to sell it
Yes
Authenticity
Original/official
Disclaimer
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
The seller was informed by Catawiki about documentation requirements and guarantees the following: - the object was legally obtained, - the seller has the right to sell and/or export the object, as relevant, - the seller will provide the necessary provenance information and arrange required documentation and permits/licenses, as applicable and as per local laws, - the seller will notify the buyer of any delays in obtaining permits/licenses. By bidding, you acknowledge that import documentation may be required depending on your country of residence and that obtaining permits/licenses may cause delays in the delivery of your object.
