Late Period, 664-332 BC. A blue glazed composition amulet of Pataikos in the form of a bandy-legged squatting dwarf on a rectangular base; naked with large bald head, hands held to the sides; suspension loop at the back of the neck. 7.8 grams, 39mm (1 1/2"). Property of a London lady; from her family collection formed in the 1970s. Pataikos was a phylactic (protective) deity worshipped in ancient Egypt from the time of the Old Kingdom. Amulets of the god, which appear to have been worn around the neck, are well-attested from the New Kingdom period. Pataikos and related deities are frequently depicted stepping upon and holding crocodiles, snakes and scorpions, symbolic of their ability to ward away malevolent forces. The word 'Pataikos' was coined by the Greek writer Herodotus to refer to representations of Ptah, the god of craftsmen, as a dwarf - 'Pataikos' literally means 'little Ptah'. He also records that Pataikos was regarded as the son of Ptah.