ca. 663–332 BC. Late Period. Egyptian. A turquoise glazed faience amulet of a papyrus column, with a long thin stem descending to a pointed tip, and an everted lip at the top below a suspension loop. These were worn as amulets of vigour, freshness, and enduring youth, as the vigorously growing plant was used as the hieroglyph wadj, meaning green, fresh, vigorous, etc.Provenance: Private London collection; formerly acquired in the UK art market from 1960s-80s collections.Size: L:38mm / W:8mm ; 2.07g