An exceptionally large ancient Egyptian carnelian heart amulet formed from a slightly rounded triangle. Two lugs protrude on either side. The amulet has a suspension loop to the top. Earthly encrustations remain. In Egyptian culture and mythology, the heart was perceived as the most important organ, the seat of intelligence that decided all feelings and actions. It was believed that the heart was weighed in the afterlife, at the Weighing of the Heart Ceremony, and its balance determined the worthiness of the individual and if they could proceed to the Egyptian paradise. These heart amulets would have been worn as protection for the beholder’s in death, used exclusively for mummies. The amulet became so important that it was bestowed on every mummy until the end of the Pharaonic Period. Carnelian was held in high regard by the ancient Egyptians as protective or healing stone, and appeared in ancient artefacts to signify Re (the sun), and other powers or forces. As such and as recommended as the ideal material by the Book of the Dead, many heart amulets were fashioned from this semi-precious stone. Measurements: L 2.5cm x W 1.7cm Provenance: Ex. early 20th century U.K. collection