Antique Stone/Faience Amulet Cross ANKH "Key of Life" Ancient Egyptian Mythology

UP for Auction… Rare Antique Stone/Faience Amulet Cross ANKH "Key of Life" Figurine of Ancient Egyptian Mythology.

ANKH Cross: The ankh, often referred to as the "key of life" or the "crux ansata," is an ancient Egyptian symbol with a rich history and deep cultural and religious significance. While it doesn't have a traditional biography like a person or deity, I can provide you with information on its history and meaning:

**Origin and Symbolism:**
- The ankh is a symbol in the shape of a cross with a loop at the top, resembling a key or a handle. It is sometimes referred to as the "eternal life cross."
- The exact origins of the ankh symbol are not entirely clear, but it dates back to ancient Egypt and is believed to have been in use as early as the Early Dynastic Period (c. 3100-2686 BCE).

**Meaning and Usage:**
- The ankh is often interpreted as a symbol of life and immortality. It represents the concept of life continuing into the afterlife.
- It was commonly used in ancient Egyptian art and hieroglyphics, often carried by gods and pharaohs to symbolize their connection to the divine and their authority over life and death.
- The loop at the top of the ankh is thought to represent a mirror, which reflects the idea of life being a reflection of the divine.

**Religious Significance:**
- The ankh is closely associated with several deities, including Osiris, the god of the afterlife, and Isis, the goddess of magic and motherhood.
- It was often used in religious ceremonies, as offerings to the gods, and as an emblem of protection.

**Continued Use:**
- Even after the decline of ancient Egyptian civilization, the ankh has remained a popular symbol, adopted by various cultures and belief systems worldwide.
- It is frequently seen in contemporary jewelry and as a symbol of spirituality and personal significance.

The ankh cross, with its unique shape and profound symbolism, remains an enduring and iconic symbol of life and immortality. It has transcended its original cultural context and continues to hold meaning for people in various parts of the world today.