An ancient Egyptian turquoise-coloured faience amulet of the god Thoth. The form is worn but the figure seems to be depicted striding forward with both arms by his side and his fists clenched. He wears a short kilt and tripartite wig and is shown with the head of an ibis. The amulet is on an integrated, rectangular base which continues upright at the back, forming a dorsal pillar. In the middle of the amulet features a small horizontal perforation for a suspension loop. There are some earthy encrustations and discolouration visible to the surface. The Egyptians wore amulets alongside other pieces of jewellery. They were decorative, but also served a practical purpose, being considered to bestow power and protection upon the wearer. Many of the amulets have been found inside the wrappings of mummies, as they were used to prepare the deceased for the afterlife. The god Thoth is known as the keeper and recorder of all knowledge, and as the inventor of language. Ma’at, his wife, is the Egyptian concept of truth, balance, order, law, morality, and justice. Thoth is often depicted as a man with the head of a baboon or ibis, as these animals were scared to him. He is usually shown as an ape in underworld settings, whereas he features in paintings and carvings predominantly as an ibis. Measurements: L 1.7cm x W 0.8cm Provenance: Ex. early 20th century U.K. collection