Egyptian Steatite Plaque

Egyptian Steatite Plaque, Late Period, ca. 760-343 BC. An amuletic plaque, carved of steatite depicting a lizard, or crocodile, with a human-like face. The reverse carries an inscription, likely 'Amentet,' and having the meaning 'the west' referring to the afterlife. An amulet offering renewal for the deceased and revitalization magically, due to the lizard's ability to renew its own body if a limb or tail is lost due to accident. A 'Neb' basket glyph, placed upon its side with the meaning 'All' or 'Every' fills the composition. Ex HJB 137th Buy or Bid Sale, 31 March 2004, lot 606. L. 14 mm..