An Ancient Egyptian amulet, depicting the wedjat, or the Eye of Horus, made from carnelian. The piece depicts the silhouette of a stylised eye combining human and falcon characteristics. Short, diagonally hatched lines depict the brow, directly beneath which the eye is engraved with cosmetic lines. The almond eye has been rendered in a stylised manner, with a round pupil. Under this, a ribbed, rectangular protrusion, known as the cheek marking, extends downwards. A final incision curves diagonally from the edge of the eye to the bottom edge of the amulet, ending in a spiral. The reverse is smooth and unadorned, and reveals natural black, white, and pale orange striations. There is a ribbed suspension loop to the top. Encrustations and signs of wear as consistent with age, such as minor chipping and scratches. 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: (circa) L 1.9cm x W 1.7cm Provenance: Early 20th Century UK Collection