Papyrus column amulet

Late Period

664–332 B.C.

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 127

This amulet, meant to be worn, carried, or offered to a deity in the belief that it will magically bestow a particular power or form of protection, depicts a papyrus scepter or column. This plant, named wadj, meaning “green” or “fresh”, and the choice of green-blue faience all strongly evoke vitality and regenerative power, qualities desirable for the living and the dead. Plaques featuring a relief scepter are particular to the Late and Ptolemaic Periods.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

References

Title: Papyrus column amulet
Period: Late Period
Dynasty: Dynasty 26–29
Date: 664–332 B.C.
Geography: From Egypt
Medium: Faience
Dimensions: H. 13.7 × Dia. 3.7 cm (5 3/8 × 1 7/16 in.)
Credit Line: Purchase, Edward S. Harkness Gift, 1926
Object Number: 26.7.1036
Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art

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