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Amulet of a trussed ox
Egyptian
Late Period, Dynasty 25–30
760–332 B.C.
Medium/Technique
Glass
Dimensions
Overall: 2.2 x 3.8 cm (7/8 x 1 1/2 in.)
Credit Line
Hay Collection—Gift of C. Granville Way
Accession Number72.1296
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsJewelry, Ancient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
ClassificationsJewelry / Adornment – Amulets
DescriptionMost amulets of oxen with bound legs come from Late Period burials, where they were placed in the wrappings of mummies. The amulets were intended to provide sustenence for the deceased in the afterlife and to facilitate the funeral ritual. These amulets are typically made of a red material, symbolizing blood or flesh.
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.