Ancient Egyptian Lapis Lazuli Cartouche Amulet with Djed Pillar

A lovely Ancient Egyptian lapis lazuli amulet in the shape of a cartouche featuring an engraving of the 'tower of Djed' symbol. The obverse features a linear engraved border within which sits the tower of Djed, comprised of an oblong shape with four short horizontal lines laying over the top half. Above the tower is a small circle which could be representative of the sun. Either side of the base of the tower are two further vertical lines, one with a forked tip, and a final horizontal line sits underneath. The reverse is smooth and unworked. The amulet has a vertical perforation which would allow it to be strung, however it is now blocked.

The Djed pillar is one of the most recognisable symbols of ancient Egypt. It was associated with the god Ptah, but from the New Kingdom it was linked to the god Osiris. Originally thought of as a totem with grain suspended from it or a collection of reeds, it came to represent the spine of Osiris. From The Book of the Dead, spells 151 and 155 both make mention of a djed pillar in association with Osiris. With its link to Osiris, the Djed symbolised stability, rejuvenation and regeneration. Thus, it was used by both the living and the dead and formed from a variety of materials. Blue faience, lapis lazuli and turquoise were common materials for Djed pillars. The colour blue was further associated with regeneration and rebirth.

Measurements: Length - 1. 7cm Width - 0. 9cm

Provenance: Ex UK Collection 1920s-1940s.