Restrung with four strands of brilliantly coloured turquoise faience cylindrical beads with burgundy faience bead spacers with stylized central amulet of bright blue faience representing the falcon-headed god Qebehsenuef, one of the four sons of Horus, in profile, pierced for attachment the features highlighted in black pigment.
Many ancient Egyptian deities were concerned with the protection of the deceased, but four are particularly interesting. They are the Sons of Horus, whose existence dates back at least to the Old Kingdom (about 2613-2160 BC). Over time each of the sons of Horus, with their distinctive heads, became identified as protecting one of the internal organs (viscera) removed from the body during the mummification process. The stomach was protected by Duamutef (jackal), the liver by Imsety (human), the lungs by Hapy (baboon), and the intestines by Qebehsenuef (falcon).
For a short period in the Twenty-first Dynasty (about 1069-945 BC), it became the custom to return the mummified viscera to the body. Around this time amulets in the form of the four Sons of Horus begin to be placed with the viscera inside the mummy. However, most examples in amulet form date to much later, when they are sewn onto the bead nets that were used to cover the body.
Condition: All beads are intact and in fine condition overall, the amulet shows the imprint of linen on the back. Restrung for modern wear with 18K solid gold clasp. A very fine necklace.
Dimensions: Total Length: 52.07cm (20 1/2in); Amulet Length: 5.72cm (2 1/4in).
Provenance: Private Delaware collection.
