Crocodile amulet

Unknown

304–247 B.C. · Faience · Egyptian Art

Crocodiles were dangerous animals, but Sobek, probably the divinity depicted in this amulet, was a benevolent water deity. The Nile issuing from his sweat made the valley productive, and as a fertility god he was linked to the myth surrounding rebirth in the afterlife. The fine quality of this piece suggests it was a temple offering.

Artist

Unknown

Date

304–247 B.C.

Medium

Faience

Department

Egyptian Art

Credit line

Gift of Norbert Schimmel Trust, 1989