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The first examples of amulets appeared in Ancient Egypt as early as
4000 B.C. Believed to possess magical powers that protected the
wearer or bestowed upon the properties they symbolized, amulets
were worn both by the living as well as the dead. Throughout their
evolution, talismans were crafted from a variety of materials
including precious metals such as gold and silver, semiprecious
stone like jasper and carnelian, as well as other more affordable
glazed compositions such as faience. The particular powers of an
individual amulet were based upon its specific shape, although the
material and even the color of the charm could affect its magical
abilities. While many of the amulets created to be worn by the living
could also be worn after death, there also existed a specific group
of charms that were made specifically to be placed upon the
mummified remains of the deceased. All together, amulets
represent an important class of Ancient Egyptian art that furthers
our understanding of their complex religious beliefs.
The Ancient Egyptians believed the wedjat eye was the most
powerful protection against evil. Ever-vigilant against bad luck and
misfortune, the symbolic eye of the god Horus was worn by king
and peasant alike. Though the eye was sometimes fashioned in
gold and precious stones, it was thought to be at its most powerful
when colored blue. The tradition of blue amulets guarding against
harm is a very ancient one. Throughout the Mediterranean world
today, one sees beads and talismans of bright blue, which are meant
to avert the evil eye of bad luck. In Egypt, peasants dip the palm of
their hands in blue paint and press their palms against the sides of
their houses. When the Egyptian Empire was at its glorious height,
this faience eye of the god Horus was worn by some long-forgotten
person to bring good fortune and luck. Much has changed in the
world since then, but the power of this talisman remains strong and
benevolent as always.
- (CK.0676)
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