Group of Four Amulets: Cobra, Vulture, Djed Pillar, and Heart

Third Intermediate Period

ca. 1000–945 B.C.

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 126

Found strung around the neck of the Priestess of Amun Djedmutesankh, these four amulets may have served as a magical charm. From right to left, they might be read: "Mut (the vulture goddess) says, 'may her heart endure." It has been suggested that they also form a pun on her name, which can be translated as "Mut says, 'may she live.'"

For other objects found in the burial of Djedmutesankh, see 25.3.1–.3; .24; .27; .154a–d; and .167–.170.

Artwork Details

Overview

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References

Title: Group of Four Amulets: Cobra, Vulture, Djed Pillar, and Heart
Period: Third Intermediate Period
Dynasty: Dynasty 21
Date: ca. 1000–945 B.C.
Geography: From Egypt, Upper Egypt, Thebes, Deir el-Bahri, Tomb MMA 60, Chamber, Burial of Djedmutesankh (Ch5), MMA excavations, 1923–24
Medium: Sheet gold
Dimensions: a: h. 2.3 cm (7/8 in); w. 2.2 cm (7/8 in); b: h. 1.9 cm (3/4 in); w. 1.5 cm (9/16 in); c: h. 3.5 cm (1 3/8 in); w. 1.4 cm (9/16 in); d: h. 1.3 cm (1/2 in); w. 1 cm (3/8 in)
Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1925
Object Number: 25.3.168a–d
Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art

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