Egyptian Steatite Wadjet Amulet w/ Uraeus & Sun Disc

Egypt, Late Dynastic Period, 26th to 31st Dynasty, ca. 664 to 332 BCE. A striking amulet carved from mottled black steatite with green inclusions depicting the Wadjet (also wedjat or Eye of Horus), an ancient and powerful hieroglyphic symbol of protection. The amulet features a large eye with elongated canthi, a bushy brow, and a lengthy avian wing projecting beneath the back corner in front of a lotus-flower column. Beneath the wing is a second petite eye behind a throne-shaped hieroglyph. Trailing out from the front is a uraeus cobra with a slightly flared mane and an ovoid head surmounted by a sun disc. The verso is unadorned but exhibits pleasingly smooth surface textures. Size: 2.125" L x 1.5" W (5.4 cm x 3.8 cm)

According to the AMA Journal of Ethics, "The well-known symbol Rx may even be derived from Egyptian hieroglyphics. According to the legend, Horus, the god of sky and of light and keeper of secret wisdom, sustained a terrible eye injury while seeking to avenge the murder of his father. Later, the eye was magically healed. The eye of Horus thus became a symbol of health, now recognized as Rx, and its placement by physicians on written prescriptions represents an appeal for the success of the recommended remedy."

Provenance: ex-Phoenicia Holyland Antiquities, New York, New York, USA; ex-private Mr. Farhad collection, Antique Market, New York, New York, USA

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#155766
Condition Report: Professional repairs to lower elements and uraeus cobra from several smaller pieces, with possible restoration in some areas, and nearly invisible resurfacing along break lines that do not detract from overall presentation. Minor abrasions to obverse, peripheries, and verso, and light encrustations within some recessed areas. Smooth surface textures throughout and great remaining details on front.