Lot 1409
Red Porphyry Figure of Osiris Canopus, Late Period, ca. 664-343 BC. The figure wears a tripartite wig and pectoral, while holding a box; below, a winged scarab. Some overall wear. Osiris Canopus statues are not often encountered and this is a nice hard stone example! Height: 3 ¾"; Length: 2 ½"; Width: 2 ¼".
Canopus was an Egyptian water god, whose form was a terracotta vessel decorated with an effigy. A tale relates to the Chaldeans, worshippers of a fire god, who sent a challenge to all other gods. This challenge was accepted by a priest of Canopus, who placed his god's image in a vessel with holes sealed by wax. When the vessel was placed over the fire the wax melted and the water sprouted and extinguished the fires of the other god, therefore claiming victory.
Estimated Value $750 - 1,000.
Ex Negus collection, UK, acquired in the 1920's.
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