An Egyptian Feldspar Counterpoise Amulet, Late Period, ca. 664 - 332 BCE Amulets Seals Scarabs ("cochlea" is Latin for "snail)

("cochlea" is Latin for "snail)

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Because of its wine-dark color and its use to prevent intoxication

otherwise complete and in very good condition

Background:  In the middle of the sixth century

An Egyptian Feldspar Counterpoise Amulet, Late Period, ca. 664 - 332 BCE Amulets Seals Scarabs ("cochlea" is Latin for "snail)The pale green mottled feldspar amulet in the form of a necklace counterpoise, with a triangular body ending in a semicircle and a faux suspension loop at the top. The menyet was a form of collar particularly associated with the goddess Hathor. It was composed of multiple bead strings, which required, as did all heavy collars, that a counterpoise be worn between the shoulder blades to counterbalance its weight and help it lie correctly over the chest.