An Ancient Egyptian carved wooden fragment featuring a finely rendered Eye of Horus (Wedjat), dating to the Late Period (circa 664–332 BC).

The eye is executed in raised relief and enriched with gilding, with the inlaid eye composed of deep blue lapis lazuli set within a lighter stone sclera. The contrast between the gold and lapis creates a striking visual effect, symbolizing protection, restoration, and divine power in Egyptian belief.

The fragment preserves exceptional detail in the cosmetic lines and stylized markings beneath the eye, characteristic of the Wedjat symbol. The wood substrate shows age, with visible grain, encrustation, and losses consistent with ancient burial conditions.

Lapis lazuli, not native to Egypt and imported from regions such as modern-day Afghanistan, was a highly prized material reserved for elite and sacred objects. The use of both gilding and lapis inlay strongly suggests this fragment once formed part of an important object—likely elite funerary equipment, shrine decoration, or inlaid furniture paneling.

Condition:

Fragmentary. Losses to surrounding structure. Gilding and inlay partially preserved. Surface wear, encrustation, manganese deposits and age-related degradation throughout.

Provenance: Ex. James Wayne Collection, NevadaEx. Private California Collection