An ancient Egyptian blue faience amulet of a Menat or counterpoise with a lion-headed aegis wearing a solar disc with a central uraeus; below a broad collar, a Wedjat Eye below and inscription on the reverse; suspension loop at back.
The menat was an elaborate necklace of multiple strings of beads. The heavy weight necessitated a counterpoise, which was worn on the back between the shoulder blades. Menat counterpoises in amuletic form are found from the New Kingdom onwards. The most ornate examples date to the Third Intermediate Period and feature protective feminine feline deities.
$1,500
