Papyrus Column Amulet

Artist Unidentified

Period Late Period (Ancient Egyptian, 664–332 BCE)

Dynasty Dynasty 26 (Saite) (Ancient Egyptian, 664–525 BCE)

Dynasty Dynasty 27 (Persian) (Ancient Egyptian, 525–404 BCE)

Dynasty Dynasty 28 (Ancient Egyptian, 404–399 BCE)

Dynasty Dynasty 29 (Ancient Egyptian, 399–380 BCE)

Dynasty Dynasty 30 (Ancient Egyptian, 380–343 BCE)

Place of OriginEgypt

Date26th-30th Dynasties (664-332 BCE)

Dimensions2 1/4 in. (5.7 cm)

Mediumglazed ceramic

ClassificationJewelry

Credit LineGift of Edward Drummond Libbey

Object number

1906.55A

Not on View

DescriptionRepresenting a stalk of papyrus. Light green glaze. In the round.

Label TextThis small amulet takes the form of a papyrus stalk, known in ancient Egyptian as wadj, a word meaning “green” or “fresh.” Associated with youth and vitality, the papyrus plant flourished in the Nile Delta and symbolized the promise of renewal in both life and death. Chapter 159 of the Book of the Dead instructs that such an amulet, ideally carved from green feldspar, be placed at the throat of the deceased to ensure eternal freshness. Although made from faience rather than stone, this example reflects the brilliant green color linked to regeneration. Papyrus column amulets were commonly included among sets of protective charms sewn into mummy wrappings or laid within coffins. Their purpose was to preserve the voice and health of the dead, ensuring that they would flourish forever in the afterlife.