Lot 4
Ancient Egypt, Third Intermediate Period, 22nd to 25th Dynasty, ca. 945 to 656 BCE. An extremely rare, deeply carved limestone, mirror image relief panel from the center of a shrine - which may be read from the center towards either end. According to David Swingly, the hieroglyphs depict from the center outward: two "Neb" baskets, two solar discs, and two images of a Horus falcon head wearing the double crown of Upper and Lower Egypt - all of these sheltered by a thick band with downward pointed ends meaning "Nut" or sky. To either side are hieroglyphic dedications, to be read from the center outwards. On both ends we read "Adoration"; however, it is difficult to decipher the rest as some signs cannot be seen. Given the more or less traditional formulae that the Egyptians would use in such "official" texts, it may have stated, "Adoring the lord of the sky (or something similar)" - as generally a similar phrase follows the name of a lord. To the extreme left, the inscription seems to add "at (each?) season/time"; the extreme right is too fragmentary to read. A very special piece demonstrating fine workmanship and artistry. Size: 3.5" L x 30.75" W x 5.5" H (8.9 cm x 78.1 cm x 14 cm)
This lintel more than likely spanned the primary false doorway of a shrine, and the spirits of Osiris' realm - both the Eternal and the Resurrected one - were believed to pass below it. According to Swingly, "Our current concept of 'ghosts' passing through solid walls has its origins in this ancient preparation for communion of the souls of the nether world returning to be nurtured by the offerings, inscriptions and life pictures carefully provided for this purpose in the tombs and shrines."
Provenance: private Austin, Texas, USA collection, acquired in 1990s; ex M.S. Rau Antiques, New Orleans Louisiana, USA; ex-private California, USA collection, acquired by descent from archaeologist grandfather; according to Bill Rau, this gentleman's grandfather received it during an excavation in the Valley of the Kings in the 1920's; appraisal record and certificate of authenticity from David H. Swingler (signed and dated to 1991)
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#130770
- Condition: No restoration. Losses and surface wear commensurate with age as shown. It is difficult to translate, as text is missing and some signs cannot be seen.
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| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
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| $200,000 + | $25,000 |