Description:

Ancient Egypt, Third Intermediate Period, 21st Dynasty, ca. 993 to 984 BCE. A finely naturalistic scarab carved from steatite and covered with blue glaze with an inscription on the base that reads, "The god's father of Amun, Amenemope." The divine name "Amun" is spelled cryptographically in the largest hieroglyphs (from left to right: feather, phallus, crown for i + m + n). The phallus hieroglyph may have been written the biggest to convey the symbolism of power, regeneration, and life-giving properties. Pierced lengthwise through the body for suspension. Size: 0.625" L (1.6 cm)

Amenemope was the fourth king of the 21st Dynasty. It is possible that he wrote one of the most famous Egyptian books of wisdom, known as the "Instruction of Amenemope." In this book, advice is offered to his son on integrity, honesty, self-control, and kindness. He teaches that it is reliance on god that this tranquility and the freedom from over anxiety can be attained.

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-private Scottish collection, acquired by descent in the 1950s

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#165098

  • Condition: Slight wear as shown, otherwise intact and excellent. Great preservation to details on bottom face.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

June 10, 2021 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 24.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000