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Headrest amulet

Egyptian
Late Period–Roman Imperial Period

Medium/Technique Stone
Dimensions Overall: 1.2 x 1.6 cm (1/2 x 5/8 in.)
Credit Line Hay Collection—Gift of C. Granville Way
Accession Number72.1172
NOT ON VIEW
ClassificationsJewelry / AdornmentAmulets

DescriptionThis headrest amulet is somewhat clumsily carved in chocolate-brown stone, polished. Such amulets were common in Late Period burials, where their magic was intended to lift the head of the deceased at the moment of resurrection.

ProvenanceBy 1836: Robert Hay Collection, Linplum, Scotland; 1863: to his son, Robert James Alexander Hay; 1868-1872: Way Collection, Boston (purchased by Samuel A. Way through London dealers Rollin and Feuardent, 27 Haymarket); 1872: given to the MFA by Samuel's son, C. Granville Way.