Egyptian Hardstone Eye of Horus

$170.50

A hardstone Wedjat eye (also known as the Eye of Horus) in an aesthetically pleasing red, cream, and black stone. The craftsman has delicately carved the outline of the eye, and the piece has been carefully smoothed over. There is intricate detailing around the suspension loop, which itself forms part of the iconic and powerful shape of the symbol.

Date: Circa 715 - 332 BC
Period: Late Dynastic Period
Condition: Very fine condition; complete and intact.

SOLD

SKU: G-474 Category: Tag:

The Egyptians wore amulets alongside other pieces of jewellery. They were decorative, but also served a practical purpose, being considered to bestow power and protection upon the wearer. Many of the amulets have been found inside the wrappings of mummies, as they were used to prepare the deceased for the afterlife.

Horus was one of the most significant Ancient Egyptian deities. He is most commonly depicted with the head of a falcon, and the body of a man. Horus was a sun and moon deity, and it was said that his right eye was the sun, and the left was the moon. The eye of Horus, also known as ‘Wedjat’, was an ancient symbol of protection, particularly for the afterlife, and was also used to deflect evil. It was highly influential in Egyptian life, with ancient sailors painting the image on the bow of their vessels to ward off evil.

There are six key parts to the Eye of Horus and each has its own value: the eyebrow represents thought; the pupil stands for sight; the triangle between the pupil and the white of the eye is hearing, whereas the white of the eye is smell; the spiral curve, or tail, represents taste; and the teardrop is touch.

To find out more about Ancient Egyptian amulets please see our relevant blog post: Egyptian Amulets and their Meanings: Ancient Egyptian Gods.

Weight 2.0 g
Dimensions L 1.75 cm
Region

Stone

Culture

Egyptian Mythology

Country