Lot 352: ANTIQUITIES, Egyptian amulet of a Djed Pillar

Egyptian amulet of a Djed Pillar. Finely modeled and incised amulet in the form of a Djed pillar, pierced for suspension through the back pillar. 36.7 mm. Late Period, Dynasty 26–29, 664-332 B.C. From an old New York collection.The djed pillar amulet was one of the most common of all those placed on the mummy. A number of them could be strung around the lower torso, or placed singly on the upper chest or around the neck. The djed pillar symbolized stability and endurance. Although its form was originally that of a tree whose branches had been cut off, it later became the backbone of the god Osiris. A spell in the Book of the Dead activates such an amulet, saying 'Raise yourself up Osiris! You have your backbone once more, O weary-hearted One; you have your vertebrae!'

• Offered By: VAuctions
• Lot #: 352
• Listing #: 185047
• Closed: Thursday, May 31, 2012 7:55:30 PM CT
• Estimate: $250