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ROMAN PERIOD. Circa 2nd-4th centuries AD. Lot of three (3) PB Gnostic Amulets.
(20mm, 4.30 g, 12h) Anguiped figure of Abraxas standing right, with head of rooster, holding raised spear and shield / Lion standing right; crescent [and star?] above. Intact suspension loop. Very rare with depiction of a lion.
(18mm, 2.90 g, 12h) Anguiped figure of Abraxas standing right, with head of rooster, holding raised spear and shield; IAω below / ABPA/CAZ (retrograde Z), star and crescent above. Cf. CNG 35, lot 1689 (hammer $330).
(12x17mm, 1.96 g, 3h) Anguiped figure of Abraxas standing right, with head of rooster, holding raised spear and shield / ABPA/CAZ (retrograde Z) in two lines. Cf. Leu Web Auction7, lot 967 (hammer 380 CHF). Fine to VF.
The name Abraxas is found in the Greek Magical Papyrii as well as Gnostic texts such as the Gospel of the Egyptians. Variously claimed as an Egyptian god, or a demonic associate of Satan, Abraxas was a composite figure with the head of a rooster, the body of a man, and serpents for legs. Since the letters of Abraxas’ name numerically total 365, the Gnostic Basilideans assigned his to the 365 orders of spirits which derived from the Supreme Being. Because of his great power the image of the god, as well as his name were engraved stones, commonly known as Abraxas Stones, which were used as amulets or protective charms.
Closing Date and Time: 18 December 2019 at 13:08:20 ET.
All winning bids are subject to a 18% buyer’s fee.
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