Hematite Heart Amulet

Culture: Egyptian
Period: Late Period, 664-332 B.C.
Material: Hematite
Dimensions: 1.8 cm high
Price: Sold
Ref: 1289
Provenance: Collection Ezeldeen Taha Eldarir, acquired on 15 May 1930 from Salahaddin Sirmali in Cairo and then brought to the USA.
Condition: Intact
Description: A small hematite heart amulet in form of a vessel. On top a broadly ribbed eyelet for suspension. In ancient Egypt the heart was the source of intelligence, emotions and all creation. Also the memory of a person was saved in the heart. Before the eternal judgment the heart was finally weighed against a feather before entering the afterlife. Amulets such as the present one should ensure that the heart of the deceased offers a positive answer to the judges. Furthermore heart amulets were also very popular in daily life and were worn as jewellery.