Selection of Ancient Egyptian Carnelian Fly Amulets

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 mummified bodies as they were used to prepare the deceased for the afterlife. Amulets held different meanings, depending on their type and for. Small amulets depicting gods and goddesses were seen 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. Here it could be suggested that the wearer wanted the notorious fecundity of the fly. Amulets depicting animals were very common on the Old Kingdom Period, whilst representations of deities gained popularity in the Middle Kingdom.