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Neith fetish amulet
Egyptian
Late Period, Dynasty 26–30
664–332 B.C.
Medium/Technique
Carnelian
Dimensions
Length x width: 1.6 x 1.4 cm (5/8 x 9/16 in.)
Credit Line
Hay Collection—Gift of C. Granville Way
Accession Number72.846
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsJewelry, Ancient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
ClassificationsJewelry / Adornment – Amulets
DescriptionThis amulet of ltranslucent carnelian is the emblem of the ancient war goddess of the Delta region, Neith. The emblem consists of a very stylized pair of bows tied together. Since Neith was one of the four goddesses who protected the organs of the dead, amulets like this one were believed to offer protection and power to the deceased.
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.
(Accession Date: June 28, 1872)
(Accession Date: June 28, 1872)