A TURQUOISE FAIENCE ‘MAHES’ AMULET, LATE PERIOD-PTOLEMAIC PERIOD

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A TURQUOISE FAIENCE ‘MAHES’ AMULET, LATE PERIOD-PTOLEMAIC PERIOD This lot is from a single owner collection and is therefore offered without reserve Egypt, 664-30 BC. Finely modeled, the anthropomorphic deity depicted standing upon a rectangular base in a dynamic pose, with the left leg slightly advanced as if striding forward, while the arms extend straight along the elongated torso. The stylized lion head, characterized by a pronounced muzzle, is surmounted by a tall headdress distinguished by tapering lateral flanges. The figure is provided with a vertical strut at the rear, pierced transversely 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 5.1 cm Mahes was an ancient Egyptian lion-headed god associated with war and protection. Regarded as the son of the creator god Ptah and a feline goddess, either Bast in Lower Egypt or Sekhmet in Upper Egypt, he shared the fierce and protective nature of his mother. His principal cult centers were Taremu and Per-Bast, the major sanctuaries of Sekhmet and Bast respectively. Maahes is typically depicted as a man with the head of a lion, often carrying a knife and a bouquet of lotus flowers. These attributes allude to his association with Nefertum, the lotus deity, whose symbolism was closely connected to rebirth and divine power. Literature comparison: Compare a closely related faience amulet of Mahes, dated Late Period, 664-332 BC, 3 cm high, in the Art Institute of Chicago, reference number 1894.171. Compare a related faience amulet of Mahes, dated Late Period, 6th century BC, 3.2 cm high, in the British Museum, registration number 86.807.

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