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Egyptian Antiquities :
Egyptian Amulets : Amazonite Wedjat Amulet
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Amazonite Wedjat Amulet - CK.0212
Origin: Egypt
Circa: 16
th
Century BC
to 11
th
Century BC
Dimensions:
.625" (1.6cm) high
x .8" (2.0cm) wide
Collection: Egyptian Antiquities
Medium: Amazonite
$1,500.00
Location: United States
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| Description |
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The first examples of amulets appeared in
Ancient Egypt as early as 4000 B.C. Believed
to possess magical powers that protected the
wearer or bestowed upon the properties they
symbolized, amulets were worn both by the
living as well as the dead. Throughout their
evolution, talismans were crafted from a
variety of materials including precious metals
such as gold and silver, semiprecious stone like
jasper and carnelian, as well as other more
affordable glazed compositions such as faience.
The particular powers of an individual amulet
were based upon its specific shape, although
the material and even the color of the charm
could affect its magical abilities. While many of
the amulets created to be worn by the living
could also be worn after death, there also
existed a specific group of charms that were
made specifically to be placed upon the
mummified remains of the deceased. All
together, amulets represent an important
class of Ancient Egyptian art that furthers our
understanding of their complex religious
beliefs.
The Ancient Egyptians believed the wedjat eye
was the most powerful protection against evil.
Ever-vigilant against bad luck and misfortune,
the symbolic eye of the god Horus was worn by
king and peasant alike. Though the eye was
sometimes fashioned in gold and precious
stones, it was thought to be at its most powerful
when colored blue. The tradition of blue amulets
guarding against harm is a very ancient one.
Throughout the Mediterranean world today, one
sees beads and talismans of bright blue, which
are meant to avert the evil eye of bad luck. In
Egypt, peasants dip the palm of their hands in
blue paint and press their palms against the
sides of their houses. When the Egyptian Empire
was at its glorious height, this faience eye of the
god Horus was worn by some long-forgotten
person to bring good fortune and luck. Much has
changed in the world since then, but the power
of this talisman remains strong and benevolent
as always.
- (CK.0212)
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