Ancient Egyptian Shield
Emblazoned on the front of this heavily patinated shield are two widely recognized ancient Egyptian symbols believed to hold strong powers of protection for the wearer.
The beautifully stylized cross, the Ankh, is a symbol of eternal life and the Eye of Horus symbolizes healing and protection. Together they present a powerful amulet. Although the origin of the Ankh is unknown, its existence dates back into the early Dynastic period through to the present day. Entwined with the symbol of the Ankh, the theme of resurrection and everlasting life runs consistently through the early Egyptian cults, no matter which god was in favor at the time. In 4th century CE Egypt, the Coptic Christians adopted the Ankh as a symbol of everlasting life… just as present day Christians revere the cross of Jesus.
The Eye of Horus ties into this theme in Egyptian mythology with a struggle between Set and Horus for the recently vacated throne of Osiris. Upon Osiris’ death, a battle ensues between his sons and Set gouges out the eye of Horus. After the Goddess Hathor restores the eye, Horus gifts it to his father Osiris in order to resurrect him from death…. thus, the Eye has become a symbol of sacrifice, healing resurrection and protection.
Both hieroglyphs were worn by Egyptians as amulets in life and in death. Tombs and coffins bore these symbols, ensuring safe passage into the next life. The “Ancient Egyptian Shield” pendant combines these richly storied mythological symbols into an amulet steeped in history and meaning.
When your new pendant arrives, you will find it strung on a brown, braided leather cord with a sterling silver lobster claw clasp. The incorporated hand-forged bail is generously sized to accommodate virtually any cord or chain you may already have… making your pendant a versatile addition to your treasured collection.
OVERVIEW:
Metal: copper
Pendant Size: 2 ¼” high by 1 5/8” wide
Cord Length: 18 inches
Cord Material: braided leather, brown, 3mm, sterling silver clasp
Symbolism: eternal life, healing, protection
The beautifully stylized cross, the Ankh, is a symbol of eternal life and the Eye of Horus symbolizes healing and protection. Together they present a powerful amulet. Although the origin of the Ankh is unknown, its existence dates back into the early Dynastic period through to the present day. Entwined with the symbol of the Ankh, the theme of resurrection and everlasting life runs consistently through the early Egyptian cults, no matter which god was in favor at the time. In 4th century CE Egypt, the Coptic Christians adopted the Ankh as a symbol of everlasting life… just as present day Christians revere the cross of Jesus.
The Eye of Horus ties into this theme in Egyptian mythology with a struggle between Set and Horus for the recently vacated throne of Osiris. Upon Osiris’ death, a battle ensues between his sons and Set gouges out the eye of Horus. After the Goddess Hathor restores the eye, Horus gifts it to his father Osiris in order to resurrect him from death…. thus, the Eye has become a symbol of sacrifice, healing resurrection and protection.
Both hieroglyphs were worn by Egyptians as amulets in life and in death. Tombs and coffins bore these symbols, ensuring safe passage into the next life. The “Ancient Egyptian Shield” pendant combines these richly storied mythological symbols into an amulet steeped in history and meaning.
When your new pendant arrives, you will find it strung on a brown, braided leather cord with a sterling silver lobster claw clasp. The incorporated hand-forged bail is generously sized to accommodate virtually any cord or chain you may already have… making your pendant a versatile addition to your treasured collection.
OVERVIEW:
Metal: copper
Pendant Size: 2 ¼” high by 1 5/8” wide
Cord Length: 18 inches
Cord Material: braided leather, brown, 3mm, sterling silver clasp
Symbolism: eternal life, healing, protection