An Egyptian blue faience amulet of a hare, crouching on a rectangular base. The stylised mammal is depicted with large ears, with hatched incisions, which extend back from the head along the length of its body. Its head features round eyes and a snubbed nose. The amulet is pierced under the ears for suspension. There is minor pitting to the surface and earthy encrustation throughout. Amulets in Ancient Egypt were both decorative and practical, as they were considered as having apotropaic powers to protect or bestow power upon the wearer. Not only worn by the living, amulets have been found inside the wrappings of mummies, as they were used to prepare the deceased for the afterlife. The Egyptians respected the hare for its swiftness and keen senses and therefore hoped amulets of such would bestow these attributes. They were also believed to help with rapid regeneration. By the Middle Kingdom, hare amulets were placed in graves to help with the process of rebirth into the afterlife. Hares were most popular during the Late period, predominantly produced from turquoise faience and show in a position much like this fine example. The blue colour was thought to strengthen the idea of fertility and rebirth. Measurements: L 2.1cm x H 1.3cm Provenance: Ex. early 20th century U.K collection