Amulet inscribed with the name of the god Amun-Re

The oval-shaped amulet made of greenish Egyptian faience, pierced along the longitudinal axis, was originally worn on a chain or set in a ring. On one side, the inscription can be interpreted as the cryptographic writing of the name of god Amun-Re. For example, Re was not written with the usual sun disk, but one of his other manifestation, the cat was used instead. According to ancient Egyptian beliefs, cryptography could increase the magical protective power of amulets. The meaning of the name of the god Amun, ‘the hidden one’, could further enhance the protective power of the object. The inscription on the other side of the amulet ensured additional protection to its owner. The decoration is encircled by a circle line on both sides of the amulet. The names, images or symbols of the gods could endow their wearer with magical powers, which could protect the bodies of mortals during their lifetime or help them on their journey through the netherworld.