Egyptian Isis Amulet

$372.57

A pale blue glazed composition amulet of the goddess, Isis, seated on a throne. She is wearing a tripartite wig with throne symbol to the top, and the infant, Horus, is seated on her lap. The sides of the throne are decorated with a feather pattern, and to the back there is a supporting pillar, which is pierced for suspension.

Date: Circa 333 - 30 BC
Period: Ptolemaic Period
Condition: Very fine condition.

SOLD

SKU: EH-055 Category: Tags: ,

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.

Amulets held different meanings, depending on their type or form. Small amulets depicting gods and goddesses seem to have induced the protective powers of the deity. On the other hand, small representations of anatomical features or creatures suggest that the wearer required protection over a specific body part, or that he/she desired the skills of a particular animal. Amulets depicting animals were very common in the Old Kingdom Period, whilst representations of deities gained popularity in the Middle Kingdom.

Isis is often shown in the pose of nursing her son, Horus, as it reflects her role as life-giver and protector. She is the goddess most commonly associated with birth and creation, on account of her role in the Osirian myth. The goddess enjoyed widespread worship, which extended beyond the confines of Egypt – indeed, the secret cult of Isis in the Roman Empire received frequent mention in literature.

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

Weight 4.2 g
Dimensions L 3.3 cm
Country

Culture

Egyptian Mythology

Region