Eye of Horus Amulet

Carnelian wadjet amulet (eye of Horus). One side is carved with details. Slightly curved profile and not pierced for suspension. Broken across in two pieces and mended together. In ancient Egypt, people wear carnelian to ward off the Evil Eye and instill peace. The ancient Egyptians called carnelian “the setting sun”.

Wadjet eye amulets were among the most popular amulets of ancient Egypt. The wadjet eye represents the healed eye of the god Horus and embodies healing power as well as regeneration and protection in general.

“An amulet… is a personal ornament which, because of its shape, the material from which it is made, or even just its colour, is believed to endow its wearer by magical means with certain powers or capabilities. At the very least it should afford some kind of magical protection…”

“… For the ancient Egyptians amulets and jewellery incorporating amuletic forms were an essential adornment, especially as part of the funerary equipment for the dead, but also in the costume of the living. Moreover, many of the amulets and pieces of amuletic jewellery worn in life for their magical properties could be taken to the tomb for use in the life after death…”

― Amulets of Ancient Egypt, by Carol Andrews (#aff)

Late Period, 26th Dynasty to 30th Dynasty, ca. 664-332 BC. Overall: 28 mm x 44 mm x 3 mm. Now in the World Museum, National Museums Liverpool. M11921