A small but very finely made polychrome faience amulet depicting a seated cat. The main body of the cat is of a fine white faience, with the upper part of the head and suspension looped picked out in yellow. The animal is shown seated on its haunches, front paws straightened at the front and ears erect. A quite unusual example. Suspension loop behind the neck.
Supplied with modern acrylic display stand.
Egyptian Late period: 6th-1st century B.C.
Condition: Complete and intact.
Height 17.6 mms (0.7 ins).
Provenance: From A.B. private collection UK acquired during the 1930's-and 1940's.
For similar see C. Andrews, 'Amulets of Ancient Egypt' (London 1994), p.32.
An Egyptian cat amulet served as a charm for protection and fertility, representing the goddess Bastet. The belief in cats as carriers of the spirit of gods also contributed to a general sense of good luck associated with having a cat in the home. Cat amulets were particularly popular among women who wished to become pregnant or who were already pregnant, relying on the goddess's power to ensure a healthy pregnancy and child.