Skip to main content
Datedate unknown
MediumFaience
DimensionsOverall: 3/4 × 7/8 × 3/16 in. (1.9 × 2.2 × 0.5 cm)
Credit LineGift of William C. Winslow, Class of 1862
Object number1943.24
Not on view
DescriptionAmulets portraying deities, animals, objects, and symbols served protective purposes for both the living and the dead. Many were worn on necklaces and rings to transfer positive properties directly to their wearers. One of the most common and well-known ancient Egyptian amulets, the wedjat eye amulet, was worn for healing and protection from the Old Kingdom (ca. 2686 – 2181 BCE) onwards. This amulet represents the eye of the falcon-headed god Horus. In Egyptian mythology, Horus’ eye was injured by his rival Set, the god of storms and chaos, and then restored by the god Thoth. The wedjat eye symbolized this restoration, and wedjat eye amulets were thought to be able to transfer their protective powers to their wearers. These amulets were also frequently placed between the bandages of mummified individuals to ensure their safe passage into the afterlife. (Written by Kayley Boddy ‘22)
Blue glazed eye of Horus with painted black eyebrow and pupil. Pierced top to bottom.
Collections
Additional Details
Alternate Titles
Uzat eye
Provenance
by 1943: Hamilton College, by gift of William C. Winslow;
? - 1943: William C. Winslow, likely by subscription to the Egypt Exploration Fund.
? - 1943: William C. Winslow, likely by subscription to the Egypt Exploration Fund.