Golden Hawk

Dating from around c. 600-200 B.C., this golden inlaid depiction of a hawk or falcon in flight, would have been a representation of the deity Horus. Inlaid with multicoloured glass, the British Museum archives this piece as a pectoral. Based upon appearance, it appears the claws are missing and would have once been placed within the circular sockets that remain.

Horus was depicted as a falcon or a man with a falcon head, symbolizing kingship, protection, and the sky. The falcon was chosen because of its keen eyesight and dominance in the sky, representing Horus’ role as a celestial deity and a vigilant protector. He was associated with the ruling pharaoh, believed to be his earthly embodiment, reinforcing the idea of divine kingship. Egyptians often wore amulets and symbols of Horus, such as the Eye of Horus, for protection, health, and strength, believing in his power to ward off evil and bring prosperity.

Horus was primarily depicted as a lanner falcon (Falco biarmicus) or a peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus). Both species are known for their keen eyesight, speed, and dominance in the sky, which made them fitting symbols for a god associated with protection, kingship, and the heavens. The distinctive markings around a falcon’s eyes also resemble the famous Eye of Horus, further strengthening the connection between the bird and the deity.

As mentioned, the piece is believed to date from the Late Period – Ptolemaic Period. During the Late and Ptolemaic Periods, Horus remained a powerful symbol of kingship and protection, helping to legitimize both native and foreign rulers. The Ptolemies, in particular, embraced Horus to strengthen their rule, depicting themselves as his earthly embodiments. His myth of victory over Set was emphasized to represent order triumphing over chaos. The Temple of Horus at Edfu, built during the Ptolemaic era, became a major centre of worship, reflecting his continued importance. Despite foreign influence, Horus’ role as a divine protector and ruler remained deeply ingrained in Egyptian tradition.

The piece was purchased by the British Museum in 1923, via Panayotis Kyticas, a well-connected Greek antiquities’ dealer operating in Cairo during the late 19th and early 20th Century. Unfortunately, where the piece was originally discovered it unknown at the present.

Summary:

Golden pectoral of a hawk/falcon with inlay coloured glass

Late Period – Ptolemaic, c. 600-200 B.C.

Purchased by the British Museum via, Panayotis Kyticas (Cairo), 1923. EA57323

Measurements: Height: 5.8 cm. Length: 14.6 cm Depth: 1.4 cm

Weight: 56 grams