Ancient Egyptian Faience Amulet of Hathor as a Recumbent Cow – circa 664–30 BCE

A finely modeled turquoise-glazed amulet from the Late Dynastic to Ptolemaic Period

Ancient Egypt | Late Dynastic–Ptolemaic Period | Circa 664–30 BCE

An elegant ancient Egyptian faience amulet depicting the goddess Hathor in the sacred form of a recumbent cow, distinguished by its turquoise-blue glaze, graceful sculptural proportions, and finely articulated animal features.

The cow rests upon a rectangular integral base, its elongated body supported by folded hind legs and extended forelegs. The gently raised head features a rounded forehead, subtly modeled ears, and a projecting muzzle, lending the figure an expression of quiet repose. A long, slender tail curves around the hindquarters and rests against the animal’s flank.

The blue-green glaze displays subtle tonal variations, with scattered earthen deposits, light pitting, and areas of wear lending texture to the surface. Despite its intimate dimensions, the work conveys a carefully balanced sculptural presence.

Historical and Cultural Context

Hathor was among the most widely revered goddesses of ancient Egypt, associated with love, beauty, music, fertility, motherhood, and divine protection. Frequently represented as a cow or as a woman wearing bovine horns, she embodied nourishment and the regenerative powers of life. Her protective role extended into the afterlife, where she was associated with the care and spiritual renewal of the deceased.

Amulets depicting Hathor in bovine form invoked these benevolent qualities as objects of devotion and protection. The blue-green coloration of Egyptian faience carried associations with water, vegetation, and regeneration, bringing material and symbolism into close harmony.

Object Details

• Culture: Ancient Egyptian
• Period: Late Dynastic–Ptolemaic
• Date: Circa 664–30 BCE
• Medium: Turquoise-blue glazed faience
• Subject: Hathor as a recumbent cow
• Type: Protective amulet / miniature sacred animal sculpture
• Length: 1.9 inches (4.8 cm)
• Width: 0.7 inches (1.8 cm)
• Height: 1.2 inches (3 cm)

Provenance

Private Keller Family Collection, Alabama, USA; acquired through family inheritance. According to the supplied collecting history, the collection was assembled from private American and European collections between approximately 1935 and the 1950s. Subsequently acquired by LY Brothers Fine Art, Southern California.

Condition

Described as in very good overall condition, retaining substantial original-looking turquoise-blue glaze and clearly defined sculptural details. Chipping to the suspension loop may affect its suitability for wearing. Light surface pitting, minor abrasions, and scattered glaze wear are present, with small earthen deposits within recessed details and across portions of the surface. The body, raised head, curled tail, folded legs, and integral base remain well preserved. Please examine all accompanying photographs carefully.

Gallery Commentary

The appeal of this miniature work lies in the sensitivity of its modeling and the luminous character of its glaze. The raised head, elongated body, and carefully arranged limbs create a composition of quiet dignity, while the delicately articulated tail lends a subtle sense of movement. Its reported Keller family collecting history provides further context for a work that brings together the aesthetic and devotional traditions of ancient Egyptian faience.

LY Brothers Fine Art · Southern California
Selected Antiquities & Ancient Works of Art