Ibis Amulet

Image Not Available

Expand

IIIFView PDF

Images(2)

Image Not Available

Ibis Amulet

Artist Unidentified

Place of OriginEgypt

DateLate Period, Dynasty 25 - 31

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

Mediumfaience

ClassificationJewelry

Credit LineGift of Edward Drummond Libbey

Object number

1906.147

Not on View

Label TextAmulets in the shape of an ibis were associated with Thoth, the ancient Egyptian god of wisdom, writing, and the moon. The ibis, with its curved beak, was Thoth’s sacred animal and a frequent temple offering. Worn as jewelry or carried for protection, these amulets invoked the deity’s guidance in scholarly, magical, or administrative pursuits. They 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.