Amulet in the Form of a Ba as Human-Headed Bird

Ba is the Egyptian concept closest to what is meant by the English word "soul." Its composite human-and-bird form symbolizes its ability to travel to different realms. This extremely fine amulet may date to the Ptolemaic Period, but various types of gold amulets inlaid with colored stones are known from burials of Dynasties XXVI through XXX (orca 664–342 B.C.)

• Medium: Gold, lapis lazuli, turquoise and steatite
• Geographical Location: Saqqara, Egypt
• Dates: 664 B.C.E. or later
• Dynasty: XXVI Dynasty or later
• Period: Late Period or Ptolemaic Period
• Dimensions: 1 1/4 x 2 11/16 x 3/8in. (3.1 x 6.8 x 0.9cm)
• Collection: Egyptian, Classical, Ancient Near Eastern Art
• Museum Location: Brooklyn Museum, BMA, EXHIBITION-3, ECAMEA-3G81
• Accession Number: 37.804E
• Image: 37.804E.jpg. Brooklyn Museum photograph, 0,