Apotropaic rod ca. 1878–1640 Middle Kingdom Composed of four joining segments, this so-called magic rod is the only completely preserved example of its type. Perhaps related to the four "birthing bricks" arranged for the protection of mother and child during delivery, the rod was used to ward off harmful spirits. Some of the protective motifs—feline predators, crocodiles, toads, a turtle, wedjat eyes, and baboons with flaming torches—were also depicted on apotropaic wands and feeding cups, objects with the same defensive function. Listen to experts illuminate this artwork's story Listen P


Apotropaic rod ca. 1878–1640 Middle Kingdom Composed of four joining segments, this so-called magic rod is the only completely preserved example of its type. Perhaps related to the four "birthing bricks" arranged for the protection of mother and child during delivery, the rod was used to ward off harmful spirits. Some of the protective motifs—feline predators, crocodiles, toads, a turtle, wedjat eyes, and baboons with flaming torches—were also depicted on apotropaic wands and feeding cups, objects with the same defensive function. Listen to experts illuminate this artwork's story Listen Play or pause #1119. Magic rod with animals on top Supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies We're sorry, the transcript for this audio track is not available at this time. We are working to make it available as soon as Apotropaic rod. ca. 1878–1640 Glazed steatite. Middle Kingdom. From Egypt. Dynasty 12


Size: 3927px × 1895px
Photo credit: © MET/BOT / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

Keywords: