An ancient Egyptian light blue faience bead, decorated with the wedjat, or Eye of Horus, and ankh symbols. The bead is barrel-shaped and features a pair of wedjat symbols, alternating with a pair of stylised ankh symbols, detailed in black glaze. The trails of black glaze depict the typical silhouette of the wedjat, combining both human and falcon ocular imagery, outlining the curving brow, almond-shaped eye, pupil, curving cosmetic line, and vertical protrusion. The bead is perforated longitudinally for suspension, though this is now blocked with encrustations. Earthly encrustations and minor signs of wear as consistent with age, such as some loss of pigment, pitting, scratches, and chipping. 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 1.4cm x W 1cm Provenance: Ex. early 20th century U.K. collection