About this artwork
This amulet likely depicts a crocodile from a bird’s-eye view, a change from the more common profile perspective used for depictions of animals within ancient Egyptian art. Ancient Egyptians had several terms for small objects like this, which we call “amulets.” Worn by the living and the dead, these charms were meant to bring protection, health, and good luck, ensuring the bearer’s well-being in both life and the afterlife.
The crocodiles that previously lived on the banks of the Nile River in Egypt posed a serious threat to nearby livestock and travelers along the river. Ancient Egyptians believed that wearing images of dangerous animals could enable an individual to harness some of their power and counteract their risk; artisans pierced this amulet with a small hole so that it could be strung like a bead and worn.
Ancient Egyptians also worshipped crocodiles as a physical manifestation of Sobek, a god of the primeval waters, and represented him with the animal’s features. People revered Sobek as a deity of the earliest forces of creation. He represented both the danger and the life-giving aspects of the water.
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Status
- Currently Off View
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Department
- Arts of Africa
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Culture
- Ancient Egyptian
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Title
- Amulet of a Crocodile
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Place
- Egypt (Object made in)
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Date
- 1550 BCE–664 BCE
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Medium
- Faience
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Dimensions
- 0.5 × 0.7 × 2 cm (1/4 × 5/16 × 13/16 in.)
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Credit Line
- Gift of Charles L. Hutchinson
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Reference Number
- 1894.934
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IIIF Manifest
- https://api.artic.edu/api/v1/artworks/140683/manifest.json
Extended information about this artwork
Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email . Information about image downloads and licensing is available here.
