Egyptian Hardstone Pendant with Inscription

Amuletic pendant with broad bale, keyhole-shaped plaque with gusset to the rim. 14 grams, 67 mm



Acquired on the German art market, 1989-1995. with The Museum Gallery, 19 Bury Place, London, WC1A 2JB, 1998-2003. Property of a London based academic, 2003-present.

The menat necklace was a sacred item of great importance to female Egyptian goddesses, particularly Hathor. Priestesses of Hathor and other powerful goddesses used the necklace as a rattle, holding it in their hand by the counterpoise and evoking protection from the sound of the shaken beads. The amuletic menat counterweight symbolised the whole elaborate necklace. The menat was considered a powerful magical amulet throughout Egyptian history, offering good luck and protection against evil spirits. It was often buried with the dead for protection in the afterlife and was believed to promote fertility and good health for women while signifying virility for men.

With ridged detailing to the carapace, loop to the underside. 1.43 grams, 17 mm



From an early 20th century collection.

Composed of annular beads in several colours, restrung and with a modern catch. 12.4 grams, 50 cm long



Property of a late lady collector, acquired 1940-1990s.

Winged scarabs were often used as funerary amulets and were believed to symbolise the rebirth and regeneration of the deceased.