Egyptian Faience Wadj Sceptre Amulet

Late Dynastic Period, 26th to 31st Dynasty, c. 730–332 BC, Egypt

A striking ancient Egyptian faience amulet in the form of a papyrus sceptre, known as a wadj amulet. Beautifully covered in a vivid turquoise glaze, the sceptre features a characteristic flaring papyrus capital at the top and a pointed lower end. A small suspension loop is incorporated at the base of the capital, allowing the amulet to be worn or attached as a protective talisman.

The wadj sceptre was closely associated with the papyrus plant, one of ancient Egypt’s most important symbols of renewal and regeneration. Emerging from the waters of the Nile, the papyrus represented new life, fertility, and the continual renewal of existence. Its symbolism was therefore particularly appropriate in funerary contexts, where regeneration and rebirth were central aspects of Egyptian religious belief.

Amulets of this type are specifically mentioned in Chapters 159 and 160 of the Book of the Dead, which prescribe the placement of a wadj amulet at the throat of a mummy. Its presence was intended to provide magical protection and assist the deceased in their journey toward rebirth in the afterlife.

Ancient Egyptian amulets were valued not merely as ornaments but as objects invested with powerful magical and religious properties. They were believed to protect, heal, empower, and bring divine favour to their owners. Produced in a wide variety of forms representing animals, deities, plants, and sacred symbols, these small objects created a tangible connection between the wearer and the supernatural world.

The use of brilliantly coloured faience further enhanced the amulet's symbolism. Its luminous turquoise-blue surface evoked the life-giving waters of the Nile and the concepts of regeneration, purity, and eternal life. Small yet rich in religious significance, this wadj amulet is an evocative example of the enduring role of personal protective objects in ancient Egyptian belief and funerary tradition.

Good condition. Age-related wear and signs of use. A fine glaze with light encrustations. Size approx. 1,9cm x 0,7cm x 0,7cm.

Provenance: Dutch private collection

For a similar examples see:

Faience Wadj Papyrus Column, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Accession Number: 74.51.4519                                                                                                       (https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/243787)

Papyrus Sceptre Amulet, National Museums Liverpool, Accession Number: 44.19.67 (https://www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/artifact/papyrus-sceptre-amulet-3)

References and further reading:

Amulets of Ancient Egypt, Carol Andrews, University of Texas Press, 1994. pp. 82-83.

Talismans & amulets, Felicitas H. Nelson, New York: Sterling, 2008, p. 25. 

Ancient Egyptian Amulets, Isabel Stünkel, In Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History, New York: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, February 2019. (http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/egam/hd_egam.htm)

Handbook of Egyptian mythology, Geraldine Pinch, Santa Barbara, Calif.: ABC-CLIO, 2002, p. 127.

Egypt in the New Kingdom (ca. 1550–1070 B.C.), Catharine H. Roehrig, In Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History, New York: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, October 2000. (http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/nking/hd_nking.htm)