An Ancient Egyptian faience wedjat amulet, more commonly known as the Eye of Horus. The amulet depicts a stylised eye combining human and falcon characteristics, including the eyebrow, cheek markings extending vertically from the pupil and a diagonal line curling outwards and ending in a spiral. Some of the original turquoise pigment survives at the base of the piece. The amulet is pierced horizontally for suspension. Some earthly encrustations to the surface. Horus was one of the most significant Ancient Egyptian deities, most commonly depicted with the head of a falcon, and the body of a man. He was a sun and moon deity, with his right eye thought to represent the sun and the left the moon. The eye of Horus, also known as ‘Wedjat’, was an ancient symbol of protection, particularly for the afterlife, and was also used to deflect evil. For this reason, it was often worn or hung on the deceased at burial. This symbol was highly influential in Egyptian life, with ancient sailors painting the image on the bow of their vessels to ward off evil. Measurements: Width 3.4cm x Height 2.5cm x Depth 0.8cm Provenance: Early 20th Century UK Collection