Code: 2464
Description: A black stone (possibly obsidian or haematite) double plumes amulet with a fine central incised line separating the plumes and dummy suspension loop on base, with both sides highly polished. A few small inoffensive edge chips, otherwise condition good and a nice example of the type.
Size: 40 mm/1.6 ins. in length
Culture: Egyptian
Date: Late Dynastic Period, c. 730-300 B.C.
Provenance: From the collection of Julian Bird (1959-2014) and acquired from dealer Clive Sawyer in 2008.
Background: Julian Bird was a passionate collector of Egyptian antiquities, who built up a fine and extensive collection from the 1970s onwards. He sourced his items mainly from the UK market, from specialist dealers, fairs, markets and auctioneers. He was a model collector, carefully documenting his collection, and his notes on this particular item will be supplied to the buyer.
Notes: The dummy suspension loop suggests this amulet was for funerary use and wrapped in mummy bindings.
References: Compare no. 81b in Andrews, C. 1994. Amulets of Ancient Egypt, British Museum Press, London, p. 80.
