A pale blue faience amulet in the form of two conjoined Apis bulls. Each bull is similarly depicted, in the recumbent position with forelegs facing forwards, almond-shaped eyes, protruding ears and rounded snout and with a solar disc between the horns. A suspension loop between the heads of the two bulls. Supplied with a modern acrylic display block.
 
Ancient Egyptian Late Period: Circa 4th-1st century BC.
 
Condition: Complete and intact with good strong glaze; a few light accretions.
Length 33 mms (1.3 ins).
 
Provenance: Ex London gallery; ex English collection, AB, acquired 1920s-40, passed by descent.
 
Reference: For the single amulet of the Apis bull see page 24; Carol Andrews' Amulets of Ancient Egypt (London 1994).
 
Amulets of the Apis bull are scarce, but the double amulet is rare. A double bull amplified these core attributes, would provide the wearer with immense strength, virility, and protection from dangerous spiritual forces.
 
See our blog post on Egyptian amulets