Hathor, one of the most important Egyptian goddesses, was associated with fertility and childbearing. Carved versions of her head, with its distinctive cow ears, were often used as protective amulets. This example formed part of a magical device used either as a wand, to ward off evil spirits, or as one of a pair of musical clappers.
CATALOGUE DESCRIPTION Small fragmentary portion of ivory wand ending in a human hand below which is Head of Hathor. Condition: Preserved portion extremely fragmentary. Traces of red pigment in face of Hathor; good workmanship.