The Funerary Amulets housed in the British Museum originate from Ancient Egypt during the New Kingdom era, specifically from 1550-1069 BC. These amulets held significant cultural importance, linked to beliefs regarding the transition to the afterlife.
Upon inspection, it is evident these artifacts are composed of various materials. This includes semi-precious stones such as turquoise, carnelian, and lapis lazuli, in addition to faience, a type of glazed ceramic common in ancient craftsmanship. Sizes of the amulets tend to range within a few centimeters in length.
Each amulet exhibits detailed carvings representative of Egyptian deities and symbolic forms. These include deities like Anubis, associated with mummification and the afterlife, and symbols such as the scarab beetle, denoting rebirth. Some amulets also replicate hieroglyphic symbols, believed to possess specific protective powers to aid the deceased.
Despite their antiquity, the amulets maintain distinct colorings of teal blue, red, jade green, golden yellow, and royal blue. This attests to the advanced abilities of ancient Egyptian artisans. The faience amulets also retain polished finishes, showing the sophisticated ceramic techniques used thousands of years ago.
These amulets were typically inserted within the wrappings of mummified bodies, following the Egyptian burial customs. Believed to hold both spiritual and protective properties, these amulets were thought to equip the deceased with necessary powers for their transition into the afterlife.
The variety in the form and material of these amulets reflects the complex symbology of ancient Egyptian religion, demonstrating the dominant beliefs in the afterlife during this period. Additionally, they offer crucial insights into the craftsmanship techniques and materials of the time, illuminating the highly developed skills of New Kingdom artisans.
The Funerary Amulets hence serve as important evidences of ancient Egyptian funerary practices, providing a valuable understanding of past human civilizations and their belief systems.
