An Egyptian Carnelian Snake Amulet, Middle Kingdom, ca. 2040 - 1783 BCE
An Egyptian Carnelian Snake Amulet, Middle Kingdom, ca. 2040 - 1783 BCE
An Egyptian Carnelian Snake Amulet, Middle Kingdom, ca. 2040 - 1783 BCE

An Egyptian Carnelian Snake Amulet, Middle Kingdom, ca. 2040 - 1783 BCE

EA23110

Regular priceCHF 1,579.00
/
  • This object qualifies for free USA shipping and a flat rate fee of $60 if shipping internationally.

Amulets representing the head and forepart of a snake were worn to ward off snakebite, a common occurrence in ancient Egypt, and as greatly feared by the dead as by the living.   Although not clear why, it was apparently important for the serpent's head to be red as most examples are of carnelian, such as this one, or of some other red material such as jasper.  

The head and much of the deflated hood are represented with clearly marked eyes and incised mouth that adds to the lifelike representation. Horizontal ribbing is incised down the length of the body.

Such amulets were usually placed at the throat, which was regarded as a particularly vulnerable part of the body.

Dimensions:  Length: 1 1/4  inches (3 cm) 

Condition:  Intact and in excellent condition overall.  A rare and fine example.

Provenance:  Private Maryland collection of a diplomat, acquired while serving in Egypt between 1949 and 1956, and then by descent.

Sands of Time provides a lifetime, unconditional guarantee of authenticity and provenance. Every object you purchase from us is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, stating culture, provenance, and age.

Furthermore, we conduct due diligence to ensure the item, to the best of our knowledge, has not been illegally obtained from an excavation, architectural monument, public institution, or private property. Wherever possible, reference is made to existing collections or publications.Wherever possible, reference is made to existing collections or publications.

We ship Tuesday to Friday with FedEx and usually same day if your order is received before 2pm. Within the continental USA, packing, shipping and insurance is free. Depending on size and destination, delivery times range from one to five business days.

For overseas shipments we charge a small flat rate which includes packing, preparation of all customs paperwork, insurance and carrier fees in compliance with all USA and International customs requirements.  Overseas shipments are sent using either USPS Priority Mail or FedEx but contact us if you have a shipping preference. International customers are responsible for all duties and taxes. 

This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Come Visit Our Gallery

Any item from this site may be viewed by appointment at our Washington, DC location

Tuesday - Friday between 11 am - 5 pm.

Phone: 202 342 0518

Get directions