Egyptian Steatite Janiform Plaque Amulet with Hieroglyphs

£ 695.00

A fine Ancient Egyptian rectangular steatite plaque amulet consisting of a flat base and domed obverse, distinguished by an encircling groove. The domed obverse features a symmetrical hieroglyphic engraving, neatly balanced and carefully structured within the rectangular form of the plaque. Two parallel linear incisions comprise the central column, meeting at a curved end that is encased in a circle. Together with the two triangles hanging from a top horizontal line, it may possibly represent a stylised scale symbolising balance (𓍝). Two lines curve from midway down the central column, ending in a short, horizontal line. Three more short horizontal incisions are stacked directly beneath. Two flags, (𓊹), translating as ‘god’, flank the bottom register, and also feature between the curve and the central column.

The reverse features inscribed hieroglyphs: the top register features the senet board symbol (𓏠), the basket glyph (𓎟) directly beneath and a sun disc (𓇳) on the right. The central register features a recumbent human-headed sphinx with a short tail and a long beard. The bottom register depicts a scarab (𓆣) flanked by two uraei (𓆗). The amulet features a longitudinal perforation for suspension which is now blocked.

Date: Circa 664-332 BC
Period: Late Period
Condition: Very good. Some chips and earthy encrustations.

In stock

For the Egyptians, the sphinx was a powerful presence in the culture. Worshipped as a god, the sphinx was understood as the embodiment of the pharaoh, as well as a protector against evil and keeper of arcane knowledge. They were frequently depicted in ancient art with human heads, typically of pharaohs and occasionally of international leaders.

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, both living and deceased. Many of the amulets have been found inside the wrappings of mummies, as they were used to prepare the deceased for the afterlife.

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

Weight 6.27 g
Dimensions L 2.9 x W 2 x H 0.5 cm
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