An Egyptian Blue Faience Amulet of Qebehsenuef, 21st Dynasty, ca. 1069 - 945 BCE

This amulet of blue faience represents the falcon-headed god Qebehsenuef, one of the four sons of Horus, in profile and pierced for attachment.

Many ancient Egyptian deities were concerned with the protection of the deceased, but four are particularly interesting. They are the Sons of Horus, whose existence dates back at least to the Old Kingdom (about 2613-2160 BCE). Over time each of the sons of Horus, with their distinctive heads, became identified as protecting one of the internal organs (viscera) removed from the body during the mummification process. The stomach was protected by Duamutef (jackal), the liver by Imsety (human), the lungs by Hapy (baboon), and the intestines by Qebehsenuef (falcon).

For a short period in the Twenty-first Dynasty (about 1069-945 BCE), it became the custom to return the mummified viscera to the body. Around this time amulets in the form of the four Sons of Horus begin to be placed with the viscera inside the mummy. However, most examples in amulet form date to much later, when they are sewn onto the bead nets that were used to cover the body.

Dimensions:  Height: 2 1/4 inches ( 5.71 cm)

Condition:  Some mineral accumulation on the surface, overall intact and in good condition with no chips or breaks.

Provenance:  Private Delaware collection, acquired in the 1930s and then by descent to the grandnephew.