A fine Ancient Egyptian amulet depicting the wedjat eye, or Eye of Horus, in turquoise faience. The eye features the typical silhouette, combining human and falcon ocular imagery. At the top, the brow is depicted through hatched horizontal incisions and ends in a vertical protrusion at the rear of the amulet. Parallel below lies the cosmetic line, detailing the top of the eye. The pupil is a large round circle, with curved parallel lines depicting the base of the eye. An additional rectangular element for suspension originally featured at the top of the amulet, though this is now lost. Some chips and wear across the amulet, as well as earthy encrustations. Horus was one of the most significant Ancient Egyptian deities, most commonly depicted with the head of a falcon, and the body of a man. He was a sun and moon deity, with his right eye thought to represent the sun and the left the moon. The eye of Horus, also known as ‘Wedjat’, was an ancient symbol of protection, particularly for the afterlife, and was also used to deflect evil. For this reason, it was often worn or hung on the deceased at burial. This symbol was highly influential in Egyptian life, with ancient sailors painting the image on the bow of their vessels to ward off evil. Measurements: L 2.6cm x W 0.4cm x H 1.9cm Provenance: Early 20th Century UK Collection