Seal Amulet in the Form of a Crocodile

Place of OriginEgypt

Date11th Dynasty (2130–1991 BCE)

DimensionsH: 11/16 in. (1.7 cm); W: 1/4 in. (0.6 cm); Depth: 5/16 in. (0.8 cm).

MediumSteatite; Glazed.

ClassificationUtilitarian Objects

Credit LineGift of Henry W. Wilhelm

Object number

1927.69

Not on View

DescriptionA small seal amulet carved in the form of a recumbent crocodile. The animal's tail curls around to the front, and the back features cross-hatching to represent the rough scales of the hide. The jaws/snout of the crocodile are broken off. The base is shaped with one square end and one rounded end. It features an incised geometric "labyrinth" pattern (meander) resembling a maze. The object is pierced lengthwise for suspension. The material is glazed steatite, though the surface appears dirty white with only traces of blue/green glaze remaining.

Label TextThis tiny seal is carved in the shape of a resting crocodile, a fearsome animal associated with the god Sobek, lord of the Nile's power and fertility. The underside features a geometric "labyrinth" or maze pattern, a design popular during the First Intermediate Period (a time of decentralized power in Egypt). Used as both a protective amulet and a personal seal, it would have been worn on a string, guarding its owner with the strength of the crocodile while serving as a signature.Comparative ReferencesCf. Petrie, Diospolis Parva, Pl. XLI, 1-4: Rectangular seals with similar labyrinth designs (attributed to Dyn. 6–8).

Cf. Petrie & Walker, The Palace of Apries, Pl. XXVI, 2: Seal with similar style.

Cf. Newberry, Scarabs, pp. 86-87: Discussion of animal-shaped seals