Ca. 664-30 BC.
A collective group of five eye of Horus amulets, also called wedjat eyes, with fine details, notched eyebrows. The amulet is horizontally pierced for suspension. The wedjat-eye amulet depicts a human eye with a brow, the two stylised lines below the eye are often identified as the facial markings of a falcon. The wedjat-eye was supposedly the eye that Seth tore from Horus during a battle over who would lead the gods. Wedjat-eye amulets were used from the Old Kingdom through to the late Roman Period; it was used during daily life as a bracelet or necklace or amongst the wrappings of the deceased. This stylised and symbolic amulet was magical and offered the owner a source of protection and strength. Cf. Petrie, W. M. F. 1914. Amulets. London. (p. 32-33, pl. XXIV-XXV). For similar amulets, see Carol Andrews, Amulets.
Size: L:10.6-19.7mm / W:9.4-13.9mm ; 4.08g
Provenance: From the collection of a London gentleman; formerly acquired in early 2000s; previously in 1970s UK collection.