Code: 2563
Description: A green glazed faience ushabti, the mummiform figure modelled wearing a tripartite wig, with a long beard and with arms crossed on chest holding a pair of hoes, with back pillar and pedestal base. The front with a vertical incised inscription reading Illuminating the Osiris, Ankh-her true of voice. Some patchy wear and discolouration of the glaze, but a well-modelled attractive example with a particularly nice face.
Size: 110 mm/4.3 ins. high (122 mm/4.8 ins. high including stand)
Culture: Egyptian
Date: 26th Dynasty, 664-525 B.C.
Provernance: From the collection of Julian Bird (1959-2014) and acquired at Bonhams Antiquities Sale, Knightsbridge, London, on 22 October 2013 as part of Lot 134 and formerly in a US Virginian private collection formed during the 1950s-1970s, dispersed in 1976 via Arpad Antiques, Georgetown, Washington D.C.
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.
Mounted on a clear perspex base for presentation.