Ancient Egyptian | Blue-Green Faience Starburst Amulet | Late Period–Ptolemaic, 664–30 BCE
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: Ancient Egypt
Material: Blue-green faience
Period: Likely Late Period to Ptolemaic Period (circa 664 BCE – 30 BCE)
Description
An intriguing ancient Egyptian faience decorative amulet or bead, fashioned in a radiating sunburst or rosette-like form with a deeply molded surface and textured ridging. The amulet exhibits a rich blue-green glaze with areas of earthen encrustation and mineral surface deposits consistent with long-term burial. A perforation runs through the center, allowing the piece to be strung on a cord, worn as a pendant, or incorporated into ritual or personal adornment.
Features
- Distinct radiating star / rosette form
- Central perforation for suspension
- Deep modeled detailing
- Classic Egyptian blue-green glaze tones
- Likely a protective or decorative amulet bead
Cultural Significance
Egyptian faience was a symbolic material associated with rebirth, divine protection, and eternal life, often used in amulets, jewelry, and ritual objects. Star / rosette-style amulets are linked to protection, guidance, and celestial symbolism.
Condition
Good ancient condition with surface wear expected for its age, along with visible mineral deposits and patina throughout. The piece remains structurally strong, displaying natural glaze weathering and an appealing ancient surface texture consistent with long-term burial and antiquity.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Length: 0.75 in
Age (Approximate)
2,000–2,600 years old
Learn More
Explore an Ancient Egyptian faience amulet at the Metropolitan Museum of Art
Discover our curated Ancient Egyptian Mummies & Artifacts Collection
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: Ancient Egypt
Material: Blue-green faience
Period: Likely Late Period to Ptolemaic Period (circa 664 BCE – 30 BCE)
Description
An intriguing ancient Egyptian faience decorative amulet or bead, fashioned in a radiating sunburst or rosette-like form with a deeply molded surface and textured ridging. The amulet exhibits a rich blue-green glaze with areas of earthen encrustation and mineral surface deposits consistent with long-term burial. A perforation runs through the center, allowing the piece to be strung on a cord, worn as a pendant, or incorporated into ritual or personal adornment.
Features
- Distinct radiating star / rosette form
- Central perforation for suspension
- Deep modeled detailing
- Classic Egyptian blue-green glaze tones
- Likely a protective or decorative amulet bead
Cultural Significance
Egyptian faience was a symbolic material associated with rebirth, divine protection, and eternal life, often used in amulets, jewelry, and ritual objects. Star / rosette-style amulets are linked to protection, guidance, and celestial symbolism.
Condition
Good ancient condition with surface wear expected for its age, along with visible mineral deposits and patina throughout. The piece remains structurally strong, displaying natural glaze weathering and an appealing ancient surface texture consistent with long-term burial and antiquity.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Length: 0.75 in
Age (Approximate)
2,000–2,600 years old
Learn More
Explore an Ancient Egyptian faience amulet at the Metropolitan Museum of Art
Discover our curated Ancient Egyptian Mummies & Artifacts Collection
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