Scarce Egyptian Hardstone Menkhet Amulet

£ 125.00

A fine greenstone menkhet amulet featuring black flecks, with its flat and slightly convex body smoothened over and delicately carved at the bottom into a crenellated edge. There is a suspension loop (not pieced) to the top.

Date: Circa 6th - 4th Century BC
Period: Late Dynastic Period
Condition: Fine condition.

SOLD

SKU: AS-135 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.

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.

Menkhet amulets are a type of funerary amulet, which appear to guarantee clothing to the deceased.

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

Weight 2.03 g
Dimensions L 2.2 x W 1.2 cm
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Region

Stone

Reference: For a similar item,National Museums Liverpool, item 16.9.02.21b