Egyptian Amulet of Lion God Maahes | Circa 1070 to 664BCE
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: Ancient Egypt
Material: Carved stone (amulet form)
Period: Third Intermediate Period, circa 1070–664 BCE
Description
This rare Egyptian amulet depicts Maahes, the lion-headed god of war, protection, and weather. Revered as the son of Ptah and the feline goddesses Bast or Sekhmet, Maahes embodied ferocity and guardianship in the Egyptian pantheon. The amulet presents the deity with a lion’s head, symbolizing his protective and warlike qualities, and was likely worn as a personal charm to invoke divine strength and safeguarding in daily life or battle.
Features
- Lion-headed figure symbolizing the god Maahes
- Compact amulet form for personal devotion or ritual use
- Fine detailing consistent with Third Intermediate Period artistry
- Smooth surface with preserved carved features
Cultural Significance
Amulets of Maahes were especially valued during the politically unstable Third Intermediate Period, when Egypt faced internal divisions and foreign incursions. As a protective deity, Maahes was believed to defend both pharaohs and common people, ensuring victory in war and protection against natural and spiritual threats. Worn close to the body, this amulet offered a tangible connection to divine power, embodying the Egyptian reliance on protective charms during uncertain times.
Condition
Excellent condition, with clear depiction of the lion-headed deity and only minor wear consistent with age. The surface remains smooth, preserving the symbolic presence of Maahes.
Dimensions (approximate)
Height: 2 in
Width: 1.75 in
Age
Approximately 2,700–3,000 years old
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: Ancient Egypt
Material: Carved stone (amulet form)
Period: Third Intermediate Period, circa 1070–664 BCE
Description
This rare Egyptian amulet depicts Maahes, the lion-headed god of war, protection, and weather. Revered as the son of Ptah and the feline goddesses Bast or Sekhmet, Maahes embodied ferocity and guardianship in the Egyptian pantheon. The amulet presents the deity with a lion’s head, symbolizing his protective and warlike qualities, and was likely worn as a personal charm to invoke divine strength and safeguarding in daily life or battle.
Features
- Lion-headed figure symbolizing the god Maahes
- Compact amulet form for personal devotion or ritual use
- Fine detailing consistent with Third Intermediate Period artistry
- Smooth surface with preserved carved features
Cultural Significance
Amulets of Maahes were especially valued during the politically unstable Third Intermediate Period, when Egypt faced internal divisions and foreign incursions. As a protective deity, Maahes was believed to defend both pharaohs and common people, ensuring victory in war and protection against natural and spiritual threats. Worn close to the body, this amulet offered a tangible connection to divine power, embodying the Egyptian reliance on protective charms during uncertain times.
Condition
Excellent condition, with clear depiction of the lion-headed deity and only minor wear consistent with age. The surface remains smooth, preserving the symbolic presence of Maahes.
Dimensions (approximate)
Height: 2 in
Width: 1.75 in
Age
Approximately 2,700–3,000 years old
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