ANTIQUITIES AND ISLAMIC ART SALE
Lot 29:
Description
Expertly carved from a single piece of vivid red jasper, this exquisite Egyptian duck-shaped bowl dates from the Late Period and likely served a ritual or ceremonial purpose. The form is modelled as a seated duck, its head gently curving backward to form a handle, merging sculptural charm with functional design.
On one side, the vessel features a rectangular cartouche panel incised with hieroglyphic inscriptions, possibly identifying the owner, donor, or invoking divine favor. The stylised rendering of the duck—a bird with strong symbolic connotations in ancient Egyptian art—echoes the themes of rebirth, the Nile, and offerings made to deities.
Red jasper, associated with vitality, protection, and regeneration, was a precious and symbolically potent material in ancient Egypt. Its use here suggests a high-status commission, perhaps belonging to a priest, temple official, or elite member of society. Such animal-form vessels were often used in libation rituals or funerary contexts.
L: 6cm, H: 2.7cm
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