Mold for an Amulet of Bes with a Tambourine
Unknown Artist
ca. 1390–1352 B.C.
Medium
Pottery
Dimensions
Diam. 4.8 cm (1 7/8 in)
Classification
Mold, amulet, Bes with tambourine
Period
New Kingdom
Department
Egyptian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Rogers Fund, 1911
Accession Number
11.215.681
Tags
Art Historical Context
Step into the mystical world of ancient Egypt with this intriguing pottery mold from the New Kingdom's Dynasty 18, dating to around 1390–1352 B.C. Measuring just 4.8 cm in diameter, this small artifact was used to craft amulets depicting Bes, a popular household deity known for his jolly, dwarfish form. Here, Bes is shown shaking a tambourine, fierce yet friendly grimace designed to scare away evil spirits while bringing joy and protection. Bes was especially revered by women and children, guarding against misfortune during childbirth and everyday life. Amulets made from such molds—likely pre...