Name of Artifact: The Turquoise Guardian
Original Country: Egypt
Year of Production: 2nd millennium BCE
Location Now: British Museum, London, UK
Background Information:
The Turquoise Guardian is an ancient Egyptian faience amulet that takes the form of a protective deity or a symbolic creature from the pantheon. This artifact dates back to the 2nd millennium BCE, showcasing the rich iconography and deep-rooted belief system of ancient Egyptian culture. The amulet is currently housed in the British Museum’s extensive collection of Egyptian antiquities. Its purpose was likely to offer protection and ward off evil spirits, as such amulets were commonly used in Ancient Egypt. The use of turquoise, a color associated with rebirth and the Nile River, adds to its symbolic power. The craftsmanship of the piece, with its raised hieroglyphs and stylized features, speaks to the sophisticated techniques and religious devotion of the artisans of the time.