CIRCULAR PLAQUE AMULET WITH BES HEAD AND WEDJAT EYE

The green-blue glazed amulet was made by pressing Egyptian faience paste into one-side mould. On one side it represents the stylised head of the god Bes, on the other side the left eye of Horus, the wedjat eye. The Eye of Horus was injured during his fight with Seth but was restored by divine help and became healthy and sound again. Therefore, the wedjat eye was associated with regeneration, healing, and rebirth. Bes is traditionally represented from the front with a bearded face, protruding ears, and a protruded tongue, wearing a plumed headdress. Bes was one of the most important apotropaic gods in ancient Egypt. He protected the households and the families, particularly women and children. His power was believed to ensure protection against evil intentions and diseases. This amulet is a good example of the syncretism of the two gods, Bes and Horus, in the Late Period. The amulet is pierced widthwise at the middle. This amulet was thought to guard its wearer by the healing and protecting power of the two gods.