Cobra Amulet

A few cobra amulets have been found on the forehead of mummies, clearly referring to the protective royal uraeus that the pharaoh wears on his forehead and that became a symbol of power. But more often they have been found in other locations on the body and several cobra amulets could be placed on the same mummy. Various goddesses are known to be depicted as a cobra and this amulet could have been meant to put the wearer under the protection of such a deity. Cobras might also connect to regeneration as they shed their skin and this amulet could have been meant to transfer this quality to its wearer. Additionally it is possible that the depiction of a cobra was used to ward off snake bites. According to an ancient Egyptian magical principle the very thing that threatens you can be called upon to protect you from that threat. Cobra amulets such as this one possibly addressed different meanings, and could have different functions for different individuals or perhaps multi-layered functions for a given individual.
Isabel Stünkel 2016

Formerly Gréau Collection. Purchased by J. Pierpont Morgan before 1903. Donated to the Museum by Morgan, 1917.