AN EGYPTIAN FAIENCE PAPYRUS SCEPTRE OR WADJ SCEPTRE

Late Period, Circa 664-332 BC An amulet formed in the shape of a papyrus column known as a papyrus sceptre or Wadj sceptre. This delicately formed amulet has been crafted from a rich light blue glazed faience with a suspension hole. This amulet depicts a rolled papyrus scroll and was used a protective amulet to provide the deceased with eternal youth in the afterlife. These were found in the wrappings of the deceased and were used to prepare the deceased for their journey providing the magic of youth for eternity. After all, we all want to live eternally as our best selves. The Egyptians were no different. In hieroglyphs the papyrus sceptre was depicted as the word ‘Wadj’ which translates as the word ‘fresh’. This amulet can really be described as an amulet establishing eternal youth and health. These were popular in the 26th Dynasty, Late Dynastic Period, c. 664 – 525 B.C. These amulets were formed of either faience or green feldspar as the colour was symbolic of new life and rebirth. Andrews, C, 1994. Amulets of Ancient Egypt. Pl. 81-83. Petrie, W.M. Flinders. 1914. Amulets. Pl. 12-13.Size: L:44mm / W:12mm ; 3.4gProvenance: From the collection of a London gentleman; formerly acquired in early 2000s; previously in 1970s UK collection.