An Egyptian Faience Bes Plaque, Late Period, ca. 664 - 332 BCE
EA2344
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A finely carved rectangular faience plaque depicting the frontal face of Bes, the apotropaic dwarf god associated with protection, childbirth, and household well-being. The deity is shown with his characteristic grotesque features, leonine mane, and radiating feathered crown.
Amulets and plaques bearing the image of Bes were widely worn in ancient Egypt as protective devices, believed to ward off malevolent forces and safeguard the wearer, particularly in matters relating to childbirth, health, and domestic well-being.
The reverse is incised with a nefer hieroglyph flanked by two uraei (cobras), a symbolic grouping invoking goodness, beauty, and divine protection. Such inscriptions reinforced the apotropaic function of the object, combining the protective power of the cobra with the auspicious meaning of the nefer sign.
The plaque has been fitted in modern times with a 14K yellow gold bail and suspended from a 20-inch 14K yellow gold chain, allowing the ancient amulet to be worn as a pendant while preserving the original artifact.
Medium: Faience, gold
Dimensions: Pendant height: 7/8 inch (2.1 cm)
Condition: Overall intact and in very good condition. The pendant has been mounted on a 14K yellow gold bail and strung on a 20" 14K yellow gold chain.
Provenance: Private Maryland collection of a diplomat, acquired while serving in Egypt between 1949 and 1956, and then by descent.
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