Large Egyptian Faience Wedjat Amulet
£ 595.00
A fine, mould-made amulet in the shape of a wedjat or Eye of Horus. The amulet features the typical silhouette, combining human and falcon ocular imagery, depicted on both sides through detailed moulding. The eyebrow is marked with a chevron pattern, and details of the eye and ridge brow are represented in low relief. A large, round pupil is situated above the rounded, rectangular protrusion known as the cheek marking. A final incision curves from the edge of the eye to the back of the amulet and ends in a spiral. Remnants of pale turquoise glaze are still visible in some areas. The amulet is pierced longitudinally, through the eyebrow, for suspension. Supplied with a custom-made stand, as photographed.
Dimensions of the amulet without the stand: 5.4cm x 3.7cm
Date: Circa 664-332 BC
Period: Late Period
Provenance: Ex. AB collection UK, previously with PD Gallery, York.
Condition: Fine condition. Wear to the surface. The brow, curved diagonal marking and edges are chipped on both sides. The vertical marking was broken off and has been professionally restored. Earthy encrustation to the surface.
SOLD
The Eye of Horus, also known as Wedjat, is one of the most recognisable and powerful symbols from ancient Egypt, depicting a combination of a human and a falcon eye, since the god Horus was associated with a falcon. It was believed to have healing and protective power and was used as a protective amulet. Amulets in this shape were very popular in ancient Egypt for thousands of years, from the Old Kingdom to Roman times. They were worn by the living and also buried with the dead, as their apotropaic significance suited both.
To discover more about amulets in the Ancient Egyptian world, please visit our relevant post: Amulets in Ancient Egypt.
