Egypt, Second Intermediate period to New Kingdom, ca. 14th to 20th Dynasty, ca. 1705 to 1077 BCE. A charming, mold-made faience amulet featuring an ibis atop an integral plinth, with an eylet suspension loop on the neck for wear as a pendant. Before the bird, touching its curved beak, is another symbolic element, the details are difficult to discern, but based on known examples in museums and institutions, this is likely a figural representation of Ma'at, the goddess embodying order, righteousness, and truth, typically associated with the feather of truth. Such a talisman may have been tucked into mummy wrappings to aid in the afterlife. Thoth, often depicted as an ibis, records the deeds of the deceased during the Weighing of the Heart ceremony, where Ma'at's feather symbolizes truth and justice. Together, Thoth and Ma'at embody the balance of wisdom and truth essential for cosmic order. Size: 1.5" L x 0.6" W x 1.3" H (3.8 cm x 1.5 cm x 3.3 cm)
This piece has been tested using thermoluminescence (TL) analysis and has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. A full printed and bound report will accompany the item upon purchase.
Provenance: private Keller Family collection, Alabama, USA, acquired via inheritance, assembled from private U.S. and European collections 1935 to 1950s
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#192735
Condition
Age-expected weathering to surface as shown, but otherwise, intact, excellent, and wearable with nice iridescence and encrustations in areas. TL hole to underside of base.