This unique amulet depicts an Egyptian falcon on the obverse (possibly representing the god Horus) flanked by two ankh symbols. Carved on the reverse is what appears to be a...
This unique amulet depicts an Egyptian falcon on the obverse (possibly representing the god Horus) flanked by two ankh symbols. Carved on the reverse is what appears to be a purely decorative design. There is a circle in the center surrounded by four petal shaped projections and rows of triangles in varying sizes, which point away from the center. The most striking feature of this amulet is the naive, decidedly non-Egyptian, hand with which the falcon and the ankhs on the obverse were carved. It is fascinating and unique because it shows the translation and transformation of Egyptian religious iconography into a distinctively Hyksos artistic style. It also reveals the strong influence which Egyptian culture exerted upon those which came into contact with them in times of peace as well as upon those who dominated them.