A finely modelled Egyptian blue faience amulet of the dwarf god Pataikos. The figure is depicted nude, crouching with his legs apart on top of a small square base, and his arms resting by his side. His large head displays exaggerated facial features, including a wide nose, small lips, and deep set eyes under a protruding brow bone. The amulet is pierced through the back of the neck for suspension. Pitting and earthly encrustations are visible to the surface. The dwarf god Pataikos was believed to have been a protection deity. He was considered the son of the craftsman’s god, Ptah, and his name is presumed to originate from discussions by Herodotus. Pataikos essentially means ‘little Ptah’. Pataikos is associated with violent forces; Egyptian artwork depicts him walking over snakes and crocodiles, or grasping them in his hands, in some instances, he has a scarab beetle on the top of his head. His protective and fierce qualities were believed to ward off evils that may result in injuries, illnesses or misfortune. He is also often associated and depicted with the dwarf god Bes, appearing together on amulets. Measurements: L 2.4cm x W 1cm Provenance: Ex. early 20th century U.K collection