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Foot Amulet

Old Kingdom–First Intermediate Period
ca. 2465–2100 BCE
Not on view
During the Old Kingdom and First Intermediate Period, small amulets of hands (10.130.2358) and feet (10.130.2355) were commonly included in bracelets and anklets. These amulets protected the limbs and extremities of their wearers, while possibly conferring abilities such as dexterity, creative potential, or speed. Often these amulets were made of carnelian, an orange-red stone. The color, reminiscent of blood, would bring power and energy to the amulet.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Foot Amulet
  • Period: Old Kingdom–First Intermediate Period
  • Dynasty: Dynasty 5–8
  • Date: ca. 2465–2100 BCE
  • Geography: From Egypt
  • Medium: Carnelian
  • Dimensions: L. 1.7 cm (11/16 in.); w. 1.1 cm (7/16 in)
  • Credit Line: Gift of Helen Miller Gould, 1910
  • Object Number: 10.130.2355
  • Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art

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Hand and Foot Amulets, Carnelian
Hand and Foot Amulets
ca. 2465–2100 BCE
King Sahure Accompanied by a Divine Figure, Gneiss
King Sahure Accompanied by a Divine Figure
ca. 2458–2446 BCE
Bee amulet, Carnelian
Bee amulet
ca. 2150–1950 B.C.
Libation Dish Depicting Ka-Arms Presenting an Ankh-Sign, Greywacke
Libation Dish Depicting Ka-Arms Presenting an Ankh-Sign
ca. 3100–2900 B.C.
Bundle amulet, Carnelian
Bundle amulet
ca. 2150–1950 B.C.

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