Hand,+Fist,+and+Foot+Amulets

Hand, Fist, and Foot Amulets

**Hieroglyphics:** and

Starting during the Old Kingdom, small amulets of hands, fists, and feet were commonly included in bracelets and anklets. These amulets protected the limbs and extremities of their wearers, while possibly conferring abilities such as dexterity, creative potential, or speed. These objects, which accompanied the deceased, protected the parts represented, and if necessary served as substitutes for a damaged part.

The fist and hand amulets probably derive from magical protective gestures, while it is possible that the foot amulet was associated with trampling hostile forces. These amulets were commonly made of carnelian or faience.

Magical Amulets