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Amulet of Re-Horakhty
Nubian
Meroitic Period
About A.D. 85–225
Findspot: Nubia (Sudan), Meroe (Beg. W), Tomb W 453, thieves debris above floor
Medium/Technique
Gold
Dimensions
Height: 2.0 cm (13/16 in.)
Credit Line
Harvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition
Accession Number23.385
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsJewelry, Ancient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
ClassificationsJewelry / Adornment – Amulets
DescriptionThis amulet of a squatting, falcon-headed man probably represents the solar god Re-Horakhty, since he is wearing a sun disc on his head. Since Re-Horakhty was associated with the rising sun, amulets like this one were thought to help guarantee perpetual rebirth in the afterlife. The amulet is mold-made of gold sheet and may have been part of a necklace or bracelet.
ProvenanceFrom Meroe (Beg. W), tomb 453. 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)