Egyptian Green Diorite Menkhet Counterpoise

£ 125.00

An Egyptian menkhet counterpoise amulet formed of attractive mottled olive diorite. The amulet flares outwards from rounded shoulders towards a flat base where it is engraved with short, vertical incisions. The obverse is convex and features natural striations of black, beige and white. The reverse of the amulet is flat and adorned with a horizontal incision at the top and base. A short protrusion at the top, featuring a longitudinal incision, is perforated for suspension, now blocked. Some scratches and chips to the surface, as well as minor earthy encrustations consistent with age.

Date: 664-332 BC
Period: Late Period
Condition: Very good. Wear and minor earthy encrustations to the surface.

In stock

SKU: KW-133 Category:

The Egyptians wore amulets alongside other pieces of jewellery. They were decorative, but also served a practical purpose, being considered to bestow power and protection upon the wearer. Many of the amulets have been found inside the wrappings of mummies, as they were used to prepare the deceased for the afterlife. Weighted pendants and counterpoises were common adornments for the Egyptians, featuring a variety of styles. The most common was the menat, symbolically associated with balance and stability, and often used by priestesses in religious ceremonies.

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

Weight 1.38 g
Dimensions L 1.7 x W 1.2 cm
Culture

Stone

Region

Reference: For a similar item,Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, item 72.1255

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