An Egyptian mottled grey stone female figure. Middle Kingdom - Second Intermediate Period, 12th-14th Dynasties, 1991-1650 B.C.

The serene features framed by a Hathor wig, centrally parted at the back, the two side locks bound with horizontal bands of ribbon and curled over each breast, the details of the wig incised, the face carved with outlined almond-shaped eyes, plump cheeks and full lips, wearing a tightly fitting sheath robe with arms held to the sides of the body, supported by a plain back pillar, 4¾in (12cm), the lower legs missing, mounted. Estimate: £12,000 - 18,000 - Unsold.

Provenance:: Ex French collection formed before the 1970s.

Literature: As discussed by G.E. Markoe, Mistress of the House, Mistress of Heaven. Women in Ancient Egypt, (New York 1996), Middle Kingdom figures of unaccompanied women of non royal rank were quite rare but are usually portrayals of high ranking females. It seems therefore likely that the above figure depicts a noblewoman. For a female figure wearing a Hathor wig cf. no. 5, p.55.

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Bonhams. Antiquities. New Bond Street, 15 Oct 2008. www.bonhams.com