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Pair of Egyptian Quartz Menkhet amulets, Late Dynastic browse these categories for related items... All Items: Egyptian: Late Period: Pre AD 1000: item #285245
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A complicated element of the Egyptian mummification process was the inclusion of many amulets (or drawings representing amulets) that were included in the wrappings. The Dendera amulet list, carved onto a doorway in a temple dedicated to Hathor, lists over 100 amulets to be included in the wrappings of the deceased for various magical purposes. Among these is the menkhet amulet, whose origin and purpose is still a matter of discussion. It resembles a type of hoop-shaped counterpoise called a m'nht, which signifies that the purpose of this amulet was to provide clothing to the deceased in the afterlife. This amulet seems limited to the Late Dynastic & Ptolemaic periods. However, from the New Kingdom onward a similar hieroglyphic shape translated as "aper" is used in words and phrases that denoted equipment. Some scholars suggest that it represents an elaborate apron, which fits within the overall notion that this amulet was linked to protective clothing.
AGE: Late Dynastic, ca. 28th-29th Dynasty CONDITION: A little worn, but intact for both. Crosshatching and fringed bottom evident on both pieces. See the second picture for the second amulet. DIMENSIONS: About 3/4" each |
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