Aegis of Sakhmet or Bastet
An aegis is a collarlike necklace (often called a broad-collar) bearing a divine head as symbol of protection and fertility. The aegis was an element of a sacred menat necklace from at least the 18th dynasty. Heads of Lion- or cat-headed goddesses were most frequently depicted, but other goddesses and some gods might appear.
Small faience examples like this one might serve as amulets.
Small faience examples like this one might serve as amulets.
Artwork Details
- Title: Aegis of Sakhmet or Bastet
- Period: Late Period–Ptolemaic Period
- Dynasty: Dynasty 21–30
- Date: 664–30 B.C.
- Geography: From Egypt
- Medium: Faience
- Dimensions: H. 3.7 cm (1 7/16 in); w. 3 cm (1 3/16 in)
- Credit Line: Gift of Helen Miller Gould, 1910
- Object Number: 10.130.2055
- Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art
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