Description:

Ancient Egypt, Third Intermediate to Late Dynastic Period, 21st to 31st Dynasty, ca. 1070 to 332 BCE. A hand-carved hematite amulet depicting a petite head rest with a crescent-shaped 'pillow' on top. The amulet exhibits incredibly smooth surfaces and lustrous graphite-gray hues. Size: 0.79" W x 0.52" H (2 cm x 1.3 cm)

The Egyptians normally slept on their sides and the curved upper section held the head above the bed. At their most prosaic, the headrests were frequently buried with the mummy providing a place to rest the deceased's head and were found inside the coffin. But also, the importance of having the head elevated was integral with their religious practices as it was intended to aid in resurrection mimicking the sun god rising above the horizon and playing a part in the "Opening of the Mouth" ceremony described in the "Book of the Dead," or the "Book of Going Forth by Day." Near-miniature amulet examples like this were meant as an offering for the deceased to take with them into the afterlife.

Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010

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#181537

  • Condition: Light abrasions commensurate with age, otherwise intact and excellent. Great surface smoothness and wonderful preservation to overall form.

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October 12, 2023 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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