Ancient Egypt, Late Period Faience Large Uraeus Amulet






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Ancient Egypt, Late Period, a large pale green glazed faience Uraeus amulet with an integrated rectangular base, measuring 3.2 cm high, 1.8 cm long and 0.8 cm wide, in good condition with some glaze and base chipping, original authenticity, provenance from a private collection acquired early 20th century UK (1920s–40s).
Description from the seller
A large Egyptian pale green glazed faience amulet of a stylised uraeus, sitting on an integrated rectangular base. The stylised animal is depicted with an undulating body, with an incised ladder pattern running down its body. The head of the animal depicts large moulded eyes and an incised line to depict the mouth. The decorative details and moulding copy those seen on the Egyptian cobra. The amulet features a large ridged horizontal suspension loop applied to the body of the snake. Earthy encrustations and wear to the surface. Large chip to the base and smaller chips along all base edges. Minor chipping to the glaze along the body of the snake. Some glue residue visible along the tail but no signs of repair.
The Uraeus, a highly stylised, upright, rearing form of the Egyptian cobra, was used as a symbol of royalty, deity, and divine authority in Ancient Egypt. It was also a symbol of the Lower Egyptian goddess Wadjet. When placed on the brow, the uraeus was thought to protect the wearer by spitting fire at their enemies. Worn as a head ornament as part of their crown by the pharaohs, adorning statues, used as a hieroglyphic, or as jewellery, the uraeus also appeared as amulets, such as this piece here. Cobras in general were associated with the Eye of Ra and the shedding of snake skin was also considered a symbol of regeneration. As such, the uraeus, though usually reserved for royalty, could be placed on the deceased as amulets on their forehead, torso, or at their feet, ensuring their protection and resurrection in the afterlife.
Measurements: H 3.2cm x L 1.8cm x W 0.8cm
Provenance: Ex. early 20th century U.K collection, 1920s-40s.
Seller's Story
A large Egyptian pale green glazed faience amulet of a stylised uraeus, sitting on an integrated rectangular base. The stylised animal is depicted with an undulating body, with an incised ladder pattern running down its body. The head of the animal depicts large moulded eyes and an incised line to depict the mouth. The decorative details and moulding copy those seen on the Egyptian cobra. The amulet features a large ridged horizontal suspension loop applied to the body of the snake. Earthy encrustations and wear to the surface. Large chip to the base and smaller chips along all base edges. Minor chipping to the glaze along the body of the snake. Some glue residue visible along the tail but no signs of repair.
The Uraeus, a highly stylised, upright, rearing form of the Egyptian cobra, was used as a symbol of royalty, deity, and divine authority in Ancient Egypt. It was also a symbol of the Lower Egyptian goddess Wadjet. When placed on the brow, the uraeus was thought to protect the wearer by spitting fire at their enemies. Worn as a head ornament as part of their crown by the pharaohs, adorning statues, used as a hieroglyphic, or as jewellery, the uraeus also appeared as amulets, such as this piece here. Cobras in general were associated with the Eye of Ra and the shedding of snake skin was also considered a symbol of regeneration. As such, the uraeus, though usually reserved for royalty, could be placed on the deceased as amulets on their forehead, torso, or at their feet, ensuring their protection and resurrection in the afterlife.
Measurements: H 3.2cm x L 1.8cm x W 0.8cm
Provenance: Ex. early 20th century U.K collection, 1920s-40s.
Seller's Story
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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.
