Egyptian Faience Wadj Amulet

$246.42

A turquoise faience ancient Egyptian amulet in the shape of a papyrus sceptre, known as a ‘wadj’ amulet. The amulet features a suspension loop at the top for hanging.

Date: Circa 664 - 332 BC
Period: Late Period
Condition: Excellent

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SKU: AH-631 Category:

The Wadj Sceptre is a rolled papyrus scroll, and in amulet form was thought to give the wearer eternal youth. The papyrus was used in the hieroglyphic script for the word ‘wadj‘, meaning “fresh”, making it an appropriate talisman for the preservation of the body. The papyrus sceptre thus symbolised new life and regeneration, and so held particular significance for the deceased in the afterlife. Books 159 and 160 of the Book of the Dead refer to a Wadj amulet made of feldspar being placed at the throat of the mummy. However, amulets were made just as often in the more affordable medium of faience, which was green in colour to mimic feldspar. Feldspar was another precious stone used by the Egyptians, and its green colouring was symbolic of new life.

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

Weight 4.4 g
Dimensions L 5.1 cm
Country

Culture

Faience

Region

Reference: For similar, visit: The World Museum, Liverpool - Papyrus Sceptre Amulet