Wedjat Eye Amulet

Third Intermediate Period

ca. 1000–945 B.C.

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 126

This wedjat eye amulet was found on the left arm of the mummy together with a Thoth amulet and a djed pillar amulet (see 25.3.170a, b). Amulets were thought to magically transfer their power to the wearer. Such power often derived from their shape, material, color, and/or the recitations spoken over them. One of the most popular amulets in ancient Egypt, the wedjat eye represents the healed eye of the god Horus. It depicts a combination of a human and a falcon eye, since Horus was often associated with a falcon. Its ancient Egyptian name, wedjat, means "the one that is sound (again)." In Egyptian mythology Horus’ eye was injured or stolen by the god Seth and then restored by Thoth. The wedjat eye embodies healing power and symbolizes rebirth. An amulet in this shape was thought to protect its wearer and to transfer the power of regeneration onto him or her. It was used by the living as well as for the dead.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

References

Title: Wedjat Eye Amulet
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: Faience
Dimensions: H. 1.6 × W. 1.9 cm (5/8 × 3/4 in.)
Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1925
Object Number: 25.3.170c
Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art

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