Egyptian Copper Vessel with Eye of Horus
£ 4,000.00
An extraordinary Ancient Egyptian cylindrical copper vessel with tall sides that curve inwards slightly, making the mouth of the vessel a little narrower than the base. The interior surface is ridged, whilst the exterior is entirely smooth. The vessel also features the Eye of Horus symbol inscribed on the outside in detail, an extraordinary and unique feature of the item.
Date: Circa 1069-525 BC
Period: Third Intermediate Period - Late Period
Provenance: L. Föhr collection, Niederdollendorf. Anonymous sale; Lempertz Auction, Cologne, 21 November 1967, lots 77 and 78. Gottfried and Helga Hertel collection, Cologne, acquired at the above sale.
Condition: Excellent condition
SOLD
Copper was used extensively in Egypt as it was found abundantly in the Eastern desert and in Sinai. It was a durable material, perfect for bowls, as naturally sourced copper contained arsenic – making it particularly hard. The Eye of Horus, also known as ‘Wedjat’, was an ancient symbol of protection, particularly for the afterlife, and was also used to deflect evil. It was highly influential in Egyptian life, with ancient sailors painting the image on the bow of their vessels to ward off evil.
To find out more about the Eye of Horus please see our relevant blog post: Egyptian Amulets and their Meanings: Ancient Egyptian Gods.