The cobra was associated with the Lower Egyptian goddess, Wadjyt. An important deity, she was associated with royalty and kingship. The rearing cobra, with its hood extended, was known as the Uraeus and was worn by the pharaoh, often together with the vulture goddess Nehkbet. The two goddess were so deeply imbedded in the concept of divinity, that the pharaoh’s second name was known as the Two Ladies, to represent the two goddesses.
The cobra amulet is listed as one of the definitive amulets to be included in the burial process. Usually more than one was placed with the deceased and was meant to provide the same protection reserved for royalty. The coiled form seen here was popular from the 26th Dynasty and appeared in a multitude of materials from the Late Period, including gold, lapis lazuli and faience.