Egyptian Glazed Steatite Cowroid with a Tilapia Fish

GBP 475.00

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Object Description

A fine Ancient Egyptian cowroid amulet, made of a turquoise-coloured glazed steatite. The amulet is almond-shaped, emulating the form of a cowrie shell, featuring a smooth convex obverse. The sides are decorated with two linear bands and additional grooves enrich either end of the perforation. The flat reverse features a depiction of an incised fish, known as a Nile tilapia or bolti fish, shown in profile. Two water lily plants extend outwards from the fish’s mouth, possibly representing the fish eating the plant. One flower curves upwards over its head while the other bends underneath it, towards the fish’s belly. The tilapia has been rendered stylistically, with incised lines marking out the fish’s dorsal spines and fin, tail, pectoral fin, and pelvic fins. Its head, which has been marked out by a curved line, features a rounded eye. The cowroid has been pierced longitudinally for suspension and has been supplied with a custom made stand, with a magnetic base.

The dimensions listed below include the stand. The cowroid itself measures 1.7cm in length, 1.2cm in width, 0.5cm in height, and weighs 1.8g.

Date: Circa 1550-1070 BC
Period: New Kingdom Period

Object History

From Prince collection, 1990s-2014; Ex Private collection, 1970s-1990s.

Object Condition

Very fine condition. Earthly encrustations to the surface. The reverse of the cowroid has been chipped, particularly to the edges. Some minor cracks to the glaze, scratches, chips, and wear as consistent with its age.

Object Details

  • dimensions
    W:0.9 x H:2.1 x D:2 centimeters

Dealer Opening Times

By appointment only.

Dealer Contact

Telephone
+44 (0)208 364 4565
Mobile
+44 (0)7833231322
Web
Email

Dealer Location

The Gallery
Trent Park Equestrian Centre
Eastpole Farm House, Bramley Road
Oakwood, N14 4UW, United Kingdom

St James's Ancient Art
10 Charles II Street, Ground Floor
St James
London
SW1Y 4AA

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