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Amulet

Date ca. 1076–332 BC
Object type intaglio and similar objects, scarab, scaraboid, seal
Medium, technique stone
Dimensions

0.5 × 1 × 1.3 cm

Inventory number 51.394
Collection Egyptian Art
On view This artwork is not on display

The oval-shaped amulet, pierced along the longitudinal axis, was originally worn on a chain or set in a ring. One side is decorated with the throne name of pharaoh Amenhotep III (ca. 1390–1353 BC) carved in relief. The stylistic features of the amulet suggest that it was made during the Third Intermediate Period (ca. 1076–723 BC) or during the Late Period (ca. 722–332 BC) when the combination of the three hieroglyphs of the name of the famous pharaoh of the 18th dynasty referred to the name of god Amun-Re written with cryptography. The meaning of the name of the Amun, ‘the hidden one’, could further enhance the protective power of the object. The inscription on the other side of the amulet ensured additional magical reinforcements and may call upon the protection of a cow goddess to its owner.

This record is subject to revision due to ongoing research.

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