An Ancient Egyptian red jasper amulet in the form of a fish. The fish is in a triangular silhouette with an open mouth, rounded eyes and marked tail and fin with the detailing finely rendered with delicate incisions. The bead is perforated longitudinally for suspension (from mouth to tail). Light encrustations to the surface. The fish is probably a stylistic representation of the tilapia or bolti fish which is abundant in the Nile valley. As the tilapia fish hatches its eggs in its mouth, it became a symbol of regeneration and associated with the fertility goddess Hathor and the sun god, Re. Jasper on the other hand, was often associated with blood due to its colour. In the Book of the Dead an amulet of Red Jasper was used to enhance the spell: “You have your blood, Isis; you have your power.” Jasper was linked to fertility, as it was named the fertilising blood of Mother Isis. Jaspers have been revered by ancient peoples and civilisations throughout the world as sacred and powerful stones of protection, for both the physical and spiritual realm. Measurements: L 1.3 cm x W 1 cm Provenance: Ex UK Collection 1920s-1940s.