705 - Egyptian Faiance Amulet of Pataikos. Late Period, 664-332 B.C. Depicted as a naked dwarf with short limbs; pierced to rear of the neck for use as an amulet; mounted on a display stand. 7.88 grams total, 40 mm high including stand (1 5/8 in.). (For this specific lot, 5% import VAT is applicable on the hammer price.)

Egyptian Faiance Amulet of Pataikos. Late Period, 664-332 B.C. Depicted as a naked dwarf with short limbs; pierced to rear of the neck for use as an amulet; mounted on a display stand. 7.88 grams total, 40 mm high including stand (1 5/8 in.). (For this specific lot, 5% import VAT is applicable on the hammer price.) Ex Herbert A.Cahn, Basle, 1960s. Herodotus mentions Pataikos as a dwarf-like depiction of Ptah, although the god s ancient Egyptian name remains unclear. These small amulets symbolise Ptah s immense magical power, which helps protect the wearer from dangerous creatures such as snakes and crocodiles. The deity s role in the funerary sphere is explained in Spell 164 of the Book of the Dead, where Pataikos is used to safeguard the deceased s heart from attacks by enemies and from bodily decay. TimeLine Auctions follows a rigorous vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists. See our website for more information.