Bes Amulet Mold
Egypt: Late Period, c. 700 BCE
Ceramic, 7.3 cm tall

Bes Amulet Mold

Typically shown as a dwarf with leonine features, Bes was the ancient Egyptian god who protected the house and children.  Usually depicted face-on instead of in profile that is typical of Egyptian art, Bes most likely was a Nubian god where his name meant “cat”.  Bes was known as “the demon-queller” as he kept evil and mischievous spirits from the birthing room.  His protection of the young continued throughout childhood.  It was often said that when a child smiled or laughed for no apparent reason it was because of Bes.  When a child became ill, the image of Bes was carved on medicine bottles and protective amulets were used to frighten off the malicious spirit.  Because Bes also protected the home from all types of misfortune including snakes and ill-luck he was also associated with happiness, music, and dance.

About This Object

This clay mold was used to create amulets, most likely made from faience.  Also known as Egyptian Paste, it is made from crushed quartz that extrudes to the surface while drying and vitrifies during the firing process, essentially self-glazing.  Faience was commonly used to make amulets because it was inexpensive and could hold fine detail.