Egyptian Polished Black Stone Pesesh-Kef Amulet
Late Period, 664-332 B.C. Ostrich feathers of Amun, delineated with a single vertical groove and curved tips; integral suspension loop to reverse; likely obsidian or basalt. Cf. Petrie, W.M.F., Amulets, London, 1914, pl.IV c and d, for similar.3.75 grams, 29 mm (1 1/8 in.). From an early 20th century collection, Home Counties, UK, 1930-1940s. The Pesesh-kef was a 'magical' ritual implement used in the ancient Egyptian Opening of the Mouth ceremony, which may have represented an implement used to cut umbilical cords. During the Opening of the Mouth ritual, priests held the implement to the mouth of a cult statue or mummy, allowing it to receive offerings.