Timeless are pleased to offer this late-period Egyptian Amulet, dating from 664 -332 B.C.E.
Cast in a copper alloy, this roughly-made amuletic figure is depicted in a walking posture, left leg forward, and arms alongside the body - typical of Egyptian figures and statuary of the period.
Amulets in ancient Egypt served as protective talismans for the living and the dead. They were believed to bestow specific powers or attributes upon the wearer or the deceased, aiding in daily life or in the journey through the Duat (the Egyptian underworld). The depiction of gods in a walking posture was particularly significant, as it represented the deity's active participation in the bearer's protection, readiness to assist, or power to guide the deceased through the challenges of the afterlife.
Common Deities represented as walking figures include:
- Anubis: The jackal-headed god associated with mummification and the afterlife. A walking Anubis amulet might offer protection during the embalming process or safe passage through the underworld.
- Horus: The falcon-headed god of the sky, protection, and kingship. Amulets depicting Horus often symbolized protection against enemies and evil spirits.
- Thoth: The ibis-headed god of wisdom, knowledge, and writing. A walking Thoth amulet could be sought for guidance in making wise decisions or for success in scholarly pursuits.
- Sekhmet: A lioness-headed goddess associated with healing and warfare. Her amulets were believed to offer strength and protection against illness.
An enigmatic piece of history, now available in the Timeless Galleries
ANCIENT EGYPTIAN WALKING FIGURE AMULET
Acquired by Timeless on the UK antiquities market, 2019. Previously forming part of an old Irish collection.