Ancient Egyptian Faience Amulet of Goddess Nut as a Sow

£295.00

A small Egyptian turquoise faience amulet depicting the goddess Nut as a sow. The amulet is finely rendered in the shape of a pig, with clear and naturalistic detailing to the mane, legs and the snout. The head is stooped towards the ground, and the composition sits on a rectangular base. Along the bridge of the back, there is a ridged suspension loop for attachment.

Date: Circa 1090–900 BC
Period: Third Intermediate Period
Condition: Very fine condition.

SOLD

SKU: MG-353 Category: Tags: ,

Amulets were used in Ancient Egypt for decorative and protective purposes. They were often crafted in the form of deities, body parts, and animals to evoke the protection or attributes of the divine. The goddess, Nut, was the sky goddess of Ancient Egypt: she was depicted as a nude woman, covered in stars, who arched herself over the earth.

It is thought that the goddess Nut was depicted as a sow on account of her role in the birth and death of the sun. Giving birth to both the sun and the stars during the day and night respectively, she consumes them up as they disappear from the heavens at dusk and dawn. This consumption of her offspring was likened to the female pig’s habit of consuming her own offspring.

To find out more about Ancient Egyptian amulets please see our relevant blog post: Egyptian Amulets and their Meanings: Ancient Egyptian Gods.

Weight 1.37 g
Dimensions L 1.6 x H 1.5 cm
Culture

Region

Faience

Egyptian Mythology

Reference: For a similar item, please see The Art Institute, Chicago, item 1892.178

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