Egyptian Hypocephalus Value Guide

A magical Ancient Egyptian amulet called “hypocephalus” with ...
Estimated Value
$45 – $50
Period
1990-2020
Origin
Egypt
Materials
Wood, plaster, ink

The Egyptian Hypocephalus is a circular funerary amulet designed to be placed under the head of a mummy to provide magical light and heat in the underworld. This modern wood and plaster collectible represents the Eye of Ra and is famously linked to Facsimile 2 from the LDS Book of Abraham.

What Is Egyptian Hypocephalus Worth?

The typical price range for Egyptian Hypocephalus is $45 - $50 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

  • Condition of the plaster surface and clarity of the ink inscriptions.
  • Historical connection to the Joseph Smith papyri and LDS Facsimile 2 interest.
  • Quality of the hand-painted vignettes compared to mass-produced tourist versions.
  • Market demand for Egyptian funerary replicas within the $45-$50 price range.

How to Identify Egyptian Hypocephalus?

  • Look for the distinct circular shape made of plaster-coated wood featuring black ink vignettes.
  • Identify specific iconography including the four-headed deity and the solar bark of Ra.
  • Check for modern Egyptian craftsmanship consistent with the 1990-2020 production era.
  • Verify the presence of hieroglyphic inscriptions derived from the Book of the Dead around the perimeter.

History of Egyptian Hypocephalus

Hypocephali were placed under the heads of mummies to magically provide light and heat for the deceased, ensuring they could navigate the underworld. The circular shape represents the eye of Ra and the solar disk. This specific design became famously associated with the Facsimile 2 in the LDS Book of Abraham after Joseph Smith acquired Egyptian papyri and a hypocephalus in the 1830s.

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