A Published Egyptian Blue faience Lion's Head Amulet, 26th Dynasty, ca. 664 - 525 BCE

Symbolizing fierceness and bravery, this small lion’s head amulet of blue faience, is modeled in raised relief against a flat back. The broad facial plane features rounded contours and subtly indented cheeks, reflecting the animal's physical power. The surface features areas of blue glaze interspersed with mottled brown, a characteristic of later faience compositions. Lion imagery held enduring symbolic value within Egyptian belief. Lions were associated with ferocity, guardianship, and the perilous edges of the desert, where dangerous forces were believed to exist. Consequently, lion-shaped amulets served both protective and regenerative purposes. They were worn as personal adornments or included in funerary assemblages to ensure the wearer's divine protection. The amulet has been adapted in modern times as a pendant and is currently mounted on an adjustable 18K white gold chain.  Published: Alex B. Malloy, Auction Sale XIX, March 16, 1984, lot #1223 For a related example, see W. M. F