CNG 91, Lot: 1752. Estimate $500. Sold for $1300. This amount does not include the buyer’s fee.

New Kingdom. 1550-1075 BC. Blue faience amulet in the shape of a hedgehog (11x9mm). Back in the form of a hedgehog, base engraved with an ankh. Cf. Matouk II, 858 (for back). Intact save for a small chip on side, well preserved glaze, pierced for mounting.

From the Dr. John N. Winnie collection, purchased from Sotheby’s in the 1990s.

The hedgehog was a popular design as it had an apotropaic value for Egyptians. The ankh symbol (“life”) engraved on the base also had a strong protective significance, meaning this amulet was intended to be carried as a good luck charm.