A fine Ancient Egyptian carnelian amulet, featuring Bes. The amulet is ellipsoid in shape with a curving obverse, rising to an arch near the centre and rising up again at the terminals, creating two rounded protrusions. The flat reverse is ovoid in shape and has been engraved with an image of the dwarf-god Bes. He has been depicted in a typical manner, squatting with his hands on his hips. Careful linear incisions stylistically show his rectangular body, long tail, head, and tall headdress of three large ostrich plumes. The amulet is pierced longitudinally for suspension. Earthly encrustations and signs of wear as consistent with age, such as pitting, minor chipping, and scratches. Bes was a popular Egyptian deity, typically depicted as a human dwarf with animalistic features, typically those of a lion and cat. Bes is the only deity in the ancient Egyptian pantheon to be represented exclusively in front perspective. His animated facial features would capture a viewers attention face on, displaying his ferocious or playful nature. In ancient Egyptian culture and religion, Bes had a number of personas, acting as a protector and fighter, as most of the leonine deities did. He was considered a guardian of women, the household and children, and he was particularly linked to the critical phase of labour and birth. Amulets and statues of the deity were worn and featured around the house, ensnaring evil spirits who dared to approach and harm both mother and child. Bes also had a more playful nature, enjoying the merriment of music and dance. It was not uncommon to see Bes depicted playing a tambourine and dancing. Measurements: (circa) L 1.7cm x W 0.6cm Provenance: Ex. early 20th century U.K collection