The Ankh is one of the most famous and widely used symbols of Ancient Egypt. It appeared in hieroglyphic text and iconographic art all over ancient Egypt. Yet, there is much debate over the origin of the symbol. Gardiner (who composed the standard sign list) suggested that it was a sandal strap. This part of the sandal was called nkh but it is not clear whether this name was applied retrospectively because of the similarity in shape. Others have suggested that it was a totem representing male and female reproductive parts, a sun on the horizon with the path of the sun before it, and a ceremonial girdle. It may also have been associated with the Sa (the hieroglyphic symbol which represented magical protection) and has also been linked to the Tjet (also known as the knot of Isis) which has also been described as a ceremonial girdle . Ankh shaped mirror box, from the tomb of Tutankhamun The symbol is also an Ancient Egyptian hieroglyph which represents the hieroglyph ´nh (ankh) meaning life or breath of life. The glyph appears in an incredible number of inscriptions and was often used as a decorative device. Many of the gods of Egypt are depicted bearing an Ankh to represent their vivacity and immortality. Occasionally the god (or goddess) extends the Ankh to the Pharaoh, indicating both the gift of life and the purification of the subject.
Posted on: Mon, 21 Jul 2014 12:49:47 +0000
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