Khnum is most frequently depicted with a ram’s head, as he is in this example. He was one of the earliest deities to be celebrated in Egypt, and was originally the god of the source of the river Nile. He was also a god of birth and creation, as it was believed that Khnum made babies out of clay, using his potter’s wheel, and placed them in their mother’s wombs. The river Nile, rich in nutrients and good soil, was a wonderful source of life and sustenance. Khnum was therefore known as a protector and guardian, especially in relation to children – hence the choice for his depiction on an amulet.
To discover more about amulets in ancient Egypt, please see our relevant blog post: Amulets in Ancient Egypt.
