In ancient Egypt, rich and poor alike adorned themselves with amulets and charms to protect against evil and to ensure good fortune. Such talismans were an integral part of daily life, shaped in gold, gems, and most commonly, the glass paste, faience. The ram's head atop a muscular body identifies this as Amun, king of the Theban gods. Amun was the principal deity of the New Kingdom, whose influential cult was associated with royal power. His temple complex at Karnak still awes visitors to Egypt today. The passage of centuries has not diminished the magic of this splendid amulet. It radiates the eternal mystery of Egypt itself.