Ptolemaic Period, 332-30 BC. A mixed group of glazed composition amuletic pendants each in the form of a pillar with transverse bars to the head, pierced to the rear. 6.80 grams, 22-30mm (3/4 - 1 1/4"). UK art market, acquired prior to 1980. The djed pillar has its origins in the predynastic period of Egypt where it seems to have been some sort of totemic image. The most probable interpretation of the djed is that it was a pole around which ears of corn were tied in tiers at the harvest festival. The pillar played a role in rustic fertility rites as it was a symbol of power in which the energy of the grain was preserved. It later became a symbol for stability and became the hieroglyph for this word. In the Old Kingdom at the ancient capital of Memphis a ceremony occurred in which the Pharaoh raised a large djed pillar which symbolised the hoped for stability of the monarchy. At the beginning of the New Kingdom it became associated with Osiris, the god of the dead and resurrection and was seen as symbolising the god's backbone. Coffins in the New Kingdom often have a Djed painted on the bottom where the deceased would have lain, thus identifying them with Osiris. The djed was also a popular amulet that was included in the wrappings of the mummy. [5]

Fine condition.