Egyptian Carnelian Amulet of Bes

£ 165.00

An Egyptian carnelian amulet in the form of the god Bes. The deity is depicted in a highly stylistic manner, with linear details incised into the amulet. He is shown frontal facing and in his typical squatting position, his hands clasped in the centre. His facial features, including his eyes, beard, grimace and protruding ears, have been rendered in a highly stylistic manner. A series of incised lines mark out the gap between Bes’ curving legs. To the reverse, the god’s characteristic lion mane and additional detailing to his legs have been engraved with a cross-hatched pattern. The amulet has been pierced has been pierced longitudinally for suspension.

Date: Circa 1550-1070 BC
Period: New Kingdom Period
Provenance: From the H.M. Barker private collection, England, U.K.
Condition: Fine condition. Slight earthly encrustations to the surface. Minor chips and scratches as consistent with its age. Remnants of a blue adhesive used for mounting by previous owner to the reverse.

SOLD

SKU: CF-98 Category: Tags: , , ,

For the Ancient Egyptians, amulets were not only decorative but also considered to bestow power and protection upon the wearer. Many amulets have been found inside the wrapping of mummies to ensure a safe journey into the afterlife, but amulets were also used by the living for protection or in order to have their wishes granted. Amulets, depending on their type or form, had different meanings, with small amulets depicting the gods, whether in a human or animal form, thought to have induced protective powers over the wearer.

Bes was an Egyptian deity, worshipped initially as the protector of households, mothers, children, and of childbirth, and later on becoming regarded as the defender of good. His ugly physique and appearance were used to repel any enemies and evil spirits. As a household protector, his image was kept in homes on household objects, such as furniture, toiletries, bottles, and game pieces, tasked to kill snakes, fight off evil spirits, watch over the children, and aid women in labour. Amulets with his image became very popular amongst pregnant women, he was believed to ward off any demons that may corrupt the unborn child. Although the deity was presented in a grotesque, intimidating way, Bes came to symbolise the good in life, such as music, dance, and pleasure.

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

Weight 1.22 g
Dimensions L 1.8 x W 0.9 cm
Culture

Region

Semi-Precious Stones

Egyptian Mythology

Reference: For a similar item,Museum of Fine Arts Boston, item 72.872

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