Egyptian Bronze Harpocrates Amulet

Late Period to Ptolemaic Period, c. 664-30 BC, Egypt

A finely cast bronze amulet depicting Harpocrates—Horus the Child—shown standing with knees slightly bent, one arm at his side, and his index finger raised to his chin, a classic gesture symbolizing childhood. He wears the distinctive side-lock of youth, and a suspension loop remains intact on the back.

This rare amulet would have served as a powerful protective charm. Harpocrates, son of Isis and Osiris, was revered in Egyptian culture and later adopted by the Greeks and Romans. His iconic pose, misunderstood by the Greeks as a symbol of silence, led to his association with secrecy and protection.

A compelling piece that bridges Egyptian mythology with classical reinterpretation—steeped in symbolism and ancient belief.

Excellent condition. Intact. Light surface wear and abrasions commensurate with age. Beautiful dark brown-green patina. Size approx. 2,1cm x 0,6cm x 0,5cm.

Provenance: Danish private collection. Acquired abroad and brought to Denmark in the 1950s.

For a similar examples see:

Harpocrates Amulet, National Museums Liverpool, World Museum, Accession Number: M11601c (https://www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/artifact/harpocrates-amulet-3)

Amulet; figure, The British Museum, Accession Number: H1029.1 (https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/X__6311?selectedImageId=1155122001)