Amulet of Thoth as an Ibis with Goddess Ma'at

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Amulet of Thoth as an Ibis with Goddess Ma'at

Artist Unidentified

Place of OriginEgypt

Date25th–31st Dynasties (747–332 BCE)

Dimensions13/16 × 1 1/8 in. (2.1 × 2.9 cm)

Mediumfaience

ClassificationJewelry

Credit LineGift of Edward Drummond Libbey

Object number

1906.147

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Label TextAmulets in the shape of an ibis were associated with Thoth, the ancient Egyptian god of wisdom, writing, and the moon. In front of the ibis is a representation of the goddess Ma'at. The ibis, with its curved beak, was Thoth’s sacred animal and a frequent temple offering. Amulets were especially popular during the Late Period (664–332 BCE), when animal cults flourished. Often made of faience, a bright blue or green ceramic material linked to rebirth, ibis amulets were also placed in tombs to ensure the deceased’s access to divine knowledge in the afterlife.