This stone amulet plaque of two fingers is round and unusually large. The object is showcasing an index and middle finger from a right hand with very well detailed lines of nails. The amulet is rounded at the base.

The Amulet of the Two Fingers (dje-baui) represents two fingers, the index and medius. After the mummy’s internal organs were removed the Amulet of the Two Fingers was placed close to the incisions just before the embalming. It is believed that the amulet was either used to reaffirm the embalming process or to hold the incisions sealed to prevent evil forces from entering the body.

In some cases, the Amulet of the Two fingers was placed loosely in the coffin or among the wrapping of the mummy to symbolise the two fingers of god Horus that helped his father Osiris up the steep ladder all the way up to the heavens. It was believed that the two fingers were a symbol of strength and power. The Pyramid Texts of Pepi state: “two fingers of the Lord of de Ladder”, referring to Horus who helped Osiris to reach the sky.

They were made of obsidian and hematite, or other dark hard stones. A hard material was used because it is symbolic with endurance, while the black colour is associated with the Underworld. This ensured that the magical powers lasted for an eternity.

Literature: Cf. Andrews, C. Amulets of Ancient Egypt, London, 1994, item 73(e).

CONDITION: Very fine condition.

ORIGIN: Egypt