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Amulet of Horus as a falcon
Nubian
Napatan Period, reign of Shebitka–Taharqa
698–664 B.C.
Findspot: Nubia (Sudan), Meroe (Beg. W), Tomb 760
Medium/Technique
Gold
Dimensions
Length: 1.7 cm (11/16 in.)
Credit Line
Harvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition
Accession Number23.379
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsJewelry, Ancient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
ClassificationsJewelry / Adornment – Amulets
DescriptionThis amulet of cast gold represents the god Horus in the form of a falcon. Although Egypt and Nubia had numerous falcon deities, this one is identifiable as Horus because he wears the double crown of Upper and Lower Egypt. Because Horus was worshipped as the heroic victor in his battle with the god of chaos, Seth, these amulets were belived to protect the wearer from threatening forces. A loop on the back of the head allowed the amulet to be worn on a string.
ProvenanceFrom Meroe (Beg.W), tomb 760. 1923: excavated by the Harvard University–Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition; assigned to the MFA in the division of finds by the government of Sudan.
(Accession date: March 1, 1923)
(Accession date: March 1, 1923)