Object Image

Wedjat eye amulet

Unknown Artist

One of the most popular amulets in ancient Egypt, the wedjat eye represents the healed eye of the god Horus. It depicts a combination of a human and a falcon eye, since Horus was often associated with a falcon. Its ancient Egyptian name, wedjat, means "the one that is sound (again)." In Egyptian mythology Horus’ eye was injured or stolen by the god Seth and then restored by Thoth. The wedjat eye embodies healing power and symbolizes rebirth. An amulet in this shape was thought to protect its wearer and to transfer the power of regeneration onto him or her. It was used by the living as well as for the dead.

Credit: Gift of Darius Ogden Mills, 1904

664-30 B.C.
Obsidian
0.8in
04.2.395
Image and text © Metropolitan Museum of Art, 2020

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The Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Permanent collection