A SAGE TURQUOISE-GREEN FAIENCE AMULET OF TAWERET, LATE PERIOD

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A SAGE TURQUOISE-GREEN FAIENCE AMULET OF TAWERET, LATE PERIOD This lot is from a single owner collection and is therefore offered without reserve Egypt, c. 664-332 BC. Finely modeled, the anthropomorphic deity standing on a rectangular base in a dynamic pose, with the left leg slightly advanced as if in forward motion. The arms hang lowered alongside the elongated torso and swollen abdomen, suggestive of pregnancy. The well-defined animal head, combining features of a lion and a hippopotamus, is characterized by a pair of bulging eyes and a prominent muzzle with a gaping mouth revealing its dentition. Pointed ears are set back and emerge from a thick mane that cascades over the shoulders and chest. The figure is fitted with a vertical support at the rear, pierced with a small loop for suspension. Important Note: For essential information on the Jorgen Ruben Gallery Ledger and provenance documentation please visit here: www.zacke.at/rubencollection_ledger Dimensions: Height 5.3 cm Taweret and other closely related goddesses emerged from the blending of leonine, hippopotamus, crocodilian, and human attributes. These animals were among the most formidable species known in ancient Egypt, and the combination of their strengths was believed to produce a particularly potent deity and protective amulet. Taweret had primary responsibility for protection for women during pregnancy and childbirth. She is frequently portrayed standing upright and leaning on a ‘sa’ sign, a hieroglyphic motif from ancient Egypt that denoted protection and magical safety. Her representation also appeared on tomb walls and funerary equipment, where it served an apotropaic function, safeguarding the deceased during the process of rebirth. Literature comparison: Compare a closely related faience Taweret amulet, dated Late Period, 5.1 cm high, in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, object number 04.2.365. Compare a closely related faience Taweret amulet, dated Saite period, 5.6 cm high, in the Powerhouse Collection, object number 196A.

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