An Egyptian Alabaster Sun Disc Amulet, Late Period, ca. 664 - 332 BCE

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Akhet sun-on-horizon amulets, such as this finely carved example, symbolize the eastern horizon with the rising sun emerging between two hills. Closely associated with rebirth, ren ewal, and the daily triumph of light over darkness, the motif held profound funerary significance in ancient Egyptian belief. By the Late Period, these amulets were commonly placed among burial assemblages to link the deceased with the regenerative power of the newly risen sun and the eternal cycle of rebirth. This example is carved from translucent alabaster with a softly rounded solar disc rising above an incised plinth representing the horizon. The restrained simplicity of the form gives the piece an almost modern sculptural quality while preserving its unmistakably Egyptian symbolism. Reference: Carol Andrews, Amulets of Ancient Egypt (London, 1994), p. 88, no. 90e. Medium: Alabaster Dimensions: Height: 5/8 inch (1.5 cm), Width: 3/4 inch (1.9 cm) Condition: Small ancient chip to the back top right corner, otherwise intact and in very good condition overall. Provenance: Private Maryland collection of a diplomat, acquired while serving in Egypt between 1949 and 1956, and then by descent. Show more