Amulet of Thoth as an Ibis with Goddess Ma'at

Image Not Available

Expand

IIIFView PDF

Images(2)

Image Not Available

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

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. 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.