Code: 2467
Description: An unusually large green glazed composition Djed column topped by four striated ‘vertebrae’ and with pierced back pillar. An old chip to the topmost lateral projection and an old auction label glued to the reverse reading ‘Phillipps 25’. An imposing example.
Size: 105 mm/4.1 ins. in length
Culture: Egyptian
Date: Late Dynastic Period, c. 730-300 B.C.
Provenance: From the collection of Julian Bird (1959-2014) and bought at Bonhams ‘Antiquities’ Sale of 26 April 2007, as part of Lot 419. Previously in a private collection since at least 1977.
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 Djed column was a popular amulet which symbolised the backbone of Osiris and takes the form of the heiroglyphic sign meaning ‘enduring’ or ‘stable’.
This amulet is also illustrated with a Djed column amulet of more conventional size.
