Standing Sekhmet Holding Papyrus Sceptre

$1,200.53

A green glazed faience amulet in the form of the lion-headed goddess, Sekhmet. She stands upright on a rectangular groundline, with her right arm by her side and her left clutching a sceptre before her. The papyrus sceptre represents new life and regeneration. The royal wig frames the deity’s feline features, and there is a small suspension loop to the reverse.

Date: Circa 715 - 332 BC
Period: Late Dynastic Period
Condition: Fine, complete and intact.

SOLD

SKU: G-451 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.

Sekhmet was the fierce goddess of the Memphite area, forming a powerful trio with her husband, the creator-god Ptah, and their son, Nerfertum. Sekhmet was goddess of the sun and war: she symbolised the scorching heat of the sun, and brought plague and pestilence. She was seen as the fiercest of warriors, and was the protector of the pharaohs. It was said that the desert was caused by her breath alone, and she was rendered as a lion because this big cat was the bravest hunter known to the Egyptians. Perhaps this amulet, therefore, was used to evoke power and strength.

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

 

Weight 7.0 g
Dimensions H 6.0 cm
Egyptian Mythology

Faience

Culture

Region

Country

Reference: For a similar item, Art Institute Chicago, reference number 1894.1950.