Late Period, 664-332 BC. A carved lapis lazuli amulet modelled in the round as Bes squatting on an integral square base; characterful detailing to the buttocks, genitals, feet, stomach, hands, beard, face and ears; gold flecks throughout the stone. 17.3 grams, 36mm (1 1/2"). Property of a London lady, part of her family's collection; acquired in the 1970s. Bes was an ancient Egyptian dwarf god, patron of childbirth and home, and was associated with sexuality, humour, music and dancing. His image appears on a number of magic wands that are thought to be associated with birthing rituals. It was during the Ptolemaic period that the popularity of Bes reached its peak; shrines associated with god, known as Mammisi, or birth chambers, were built close to the temples of major gods and had incubation chambers within them for healing ceremonies, most likely associated with fertility and birth. [A video of this lot is available to view on TimeLine Auctions website.]