Ancient Bronze Figure / Amulet – Possibly Depicting Setekh (Seth)
85 × 30 × 30 mm | 112 grams
An intriguing ancient bronze figurative amulet, standing 85 mm high, cast in solid bronze with a rich green patina consistent with age and long-term burial.
The figure is encircled by a serpent, whose head rises above the figure’s own, a powerful symbol of protection, regeneration, and divine authority in ancient belief systems. The figure holds a cross-shaped object in the right hand and a book or tablet in the left, suggesting a syncretic or transitional iconography combining ritual knowledge, authority, and protective symbolism.
The posture, stylisation, and serpent association strongly suggest a representation of Setekh (Seth)—the ancient deity associated with chaos, protection, liminality, and transformation—possibly interpreted or re-contextualised during a later period when religious symbols were merging across cultures.
The figure is in good condition, with natural wear and corrosion consistent with age. Structurally sound, stable, and visually striking.
Provenance
-
Acquired in 1973 in Rotterdam (The Netherlands)
-
Purchased from Antique Dealer “De Doofpot”, Rotterdam
-
Previously part of the Cor Hoofdman Collection, Rotterdam
-
Earlier provenance: private collection formed since 1940
The seller can demonstrate that the lot was legally acquired. A provenance declaration has been reviewed by Catawiki.
Dimensions & Weight
Please note that the listed prices do not include customs duties and taxes outside the EU.