An Egyptian Faience Amulet of Shu, Late Period, Dynasty 26, ca. 664 - 525 BCE

Shu, the son of the creator and sun god in the Heliopolitan creation myth, represents the principle of air. Together with his consort, Tefnut- the principle of moisture, as well as Geb (earth) and Nut (sky), he was one of the first deities. Shu was responsible for separating Geb and Nut and securing the space of the universe; therefore he also represented the life principle. Amulets of Shu became popular in the Late Period. This blue-green glazed faience amulet represents Shu in his standardized form. He is shown kneeling on his right knee with his left knee drawn up. Both arms are raised (to lift up the sky), and he wears a long wig and a pleated shendyt. The integrated pillar at the back has a suspension loop for attachment.Condition: Intact and in very good condition overallDimensions: Height: 5/8 inch (1.5 cm)Provenance: Private Maryland collection of a diplomat, acquired while serving in Egypt between 1949 and 1956, and then by descent.