Ancient Egypt, New Kingdom Quartz Fly Amulet (No reserve price)






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Ancient Egyptian New Kingdom fly amulet carved from translucent quartz, 1.2 cm by 0.8 cm, in good condition and dated to circa 1550–1070 BC, pierced through the head for suspension, provenance Ex UK Collection (1920s–1940s), acquired privately in 1990.
Description from the seller
A finely carved ancient Egyptian translucent quartz fly amulet. The anatomical details of the insect are outlined, including two bulging eyes and two triangular wings, with the reverse unadorned and smoothly polished. Neat, hatched incisions add further detail across the body. The amulet has been pierced horizontally through the head for suspension. Earthy encrustations and signs of wear as consistent with age.
The Egyptians wore amulets alongside other pieces of jewellery. They were decorative, but also served a practical purpose, being considered to bestow power and protection upon the wearer. Many of the amulets have been found inside the wrappings of mummies, as they were used to prepare the deceased for the afterlife. Amulets held different meanings, depending on their type or form. Fly amulets are thought to be associated with fecundity.
Measurements: L 1.2cm x W 0.8 cm
Provenance: Ex UK Collection 1920s-1940s.
N.B. Delivery may be longer due to the busier period and we do not guarantee delivery before Christmas. Items paid for after the 19th December will be shipped after the New Year (week commencing on the 5th January 2026). **There will be an additional fee incurred for returned shipments due to buyer’s non-response to customs enquiries and/or unsuccessful delivery attempts.**
Seller's Story
A finely carved ancient Egyptian translucent quartz fly amulet. The anatomical details of the insect are outlined, including two bulging eyes and two triangular wings, with the reverse unadorned and smoothly polished. Neat, hatched incisions add further detail across the body. The amulet has been pierced horizontally through the head for suspension. Earthy encrustations and signs of wear as consistent with age.
The Egyptians wore amulets alongside other pieces of jewellery. They were decorative, but also served a practical purpose, being considered to bestow power and protection upon the wearer. Many of the amulets have been found inside the wrappings of mummies, as they were used to prepare the deceased for the afterlife. Amulets held different meanings, depending on their type or form. Fly amulets are thought to be associated with fecundity.
Measurements: L 1.2cm x W 0.8 cm
Provenance: Ex UK Collection 1920s-1940s.
N.B. Delivery may be longer due to the busier period and we do not guarantee delivery before Christmas. Items paid for after the 19th December will be shipped after the New Year (week commencing on the 5th January 2026). **There will be an additional fee incurred for returned shipments due to buyer’s non-response to customs enquiries and/or unsuccessful delivery attempts.**
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.
