medusa ancient art

This small amulet, masterfully carved from a thin piece of white indurated limestone, takes the shape of a turtle, with incised lines on each flipper, raised arched circular body, and protruding head with bulging eyes and incised line for the mouth. The underside with a pierced hole for suspension through the neck. The surface highly polished on both sides, revealing the fine grain of the stone.

Turtles and tortoises are incorporated into many religious traditions and mythologies throughout the Mediterranean world and ancient Egypt. In ancient Mesopotamia, the turtle was associated with the god Ea in Akkadian and Babylonian mythology, Enki in Sumerian mythology. He was originally patron god of the city of Eridu, but later the influence of his cult spread throughout Mesopotamia and to the Hittites and Hurrians. He was the deity of crafts, seawater, intelligence, and creation. Considered the master shaper of the world, god of wisdom and of all magic.

Provenance: ex. DJC Collection, acquired in the London art market during the 80s.
Condition: The amulet is intact and in great condition. A fine example.
References: Catalogue of Egyptian Art, Cleveland Museum of Art, p. 115, no. 59, for an Egyptian palette in the form of a turtle.
Category: Near Eastern	Period: Mesopotamian	Date: c. 3rd-2nd Millennium B.C.
Material: Limestone	Length: 1 3/4" (4.5cm)	Display Stand: No