Egyptian Green Feldspar Writing Tablet

£225.00

An Ancient Egyptian writing tablet amulet formed from a green and brown feldspar. The amulet is rectangular in shape and features a tube shaped element with vertical grooves to the top for suspension, now blocked. There are some chips to the edges of the amulet. Writing tablet amulets were positioned on the throat, chest or stomach of the deceased, and, along with seal amulets, were concerned with the survival of the deceased’s name. Such writing materials are prayed for in the 94th chapter of the Book of the Dead.

Date: Circa 664-30 BC
Period: Late Period - Ptolemaic Period
Provenance: Ex. Early 20th Century collection, UK
Condition: Good condition, minor chip to the edge.

In stock

SKU: KW-48 Category: Tag:

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. Feldspar was a precious stone used by the Egyptians, and its green colouring was symbolic of new life. 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. Faience, with its bright green and blue hues, was often used as a more affordable alternative.

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

Weight 3.4 g
Dimensions L 2.4 x W 1.3 cm
Culture

Region

Stone

Reference: For a similar item,The Art Institute of Chicago, item 1894.184

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