In the Old Kingdom baboons, due to their intelligence, were closely associated with Thoth, the god of physical and divine law, and the inventor of everything from astronomy and mathematics to theology and writing. In his baboon form, as the deity Aani, he became the god of equilibrium, who stood on judgement on the souls of the dead.
Amulets held different meanings, depending on their type or form. Small amulets depicting gods and goddesses seem to have induced the protective powers of the deity. On the other hand, small representations of anatomical features or creatures suggest that the wearer required protection over a specific body part, or that he/she desired the skills of a particular animal. Amulets depicting animals were very common in the Old Kingdom Period, whilst representations of deities gained popularity in the Middle Kingdom. Perhaps this amulet aided the wearer in the afterlife, or endowed him/her with other attributes of Thoth, such as language and accuracy.
