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Amulet of Hathor as a cow
Nubian
Napatan Period, reign of Anlamani or Aspelta
623–568 B.C.
Findspot: Nubia (Sudan), Meroe (Beg. S), Tomb.85 (tomb of Mernua)
Medium/Technique
Electrum
Dimensions
Length: 2.7 cm (1 1/16 in.)
Credit Line
Harvard University—Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition
Accession Number24.557
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsJewelry, Ancient Egypt, Nubia and the Near East
ClassificationsJewelry / Adornment – Amulets
DescriptionThis amulet of a walking cow is stamped out of thin electrum sheet. Such amulets represent the goddess of love and fertility, Hathor, in her bovine form. In this form, Hathor was also a protector of the deceased in the necropolis. This example is one of many amulets taken from the mummy of Princess Mernua.
ProvenanceFrom Meroe (Beg. S.), tomb 85 (tomb of princess Mernua). 1923: excavated by the Harvard University–Boston Museum of Fine Arts Expedition; assigned to the MFA in the division of finds by the government of Sudan.