New Kingdom, 1550-1070 BC. A group of miniature glass frog amulets, with transverse piercings for suspension. 1.22 grams total, 9mm each (1/4"). Property of a London lady; from her family collection formed in the 1970s. The frog was worn as a protective talisman by both the living and the deceased, and was made from a variety of materials including gold, copper, different coloured stone, steatite and glazed coloured faience glass, especially in green or turquoise. The frog amulet was worn for its magical powers against sickness, pain and suffering. It was also given to extend good wishes for the recovery from disease and as a talisman for a long life. Heket or Heqet was the ancient Egyptian frog-headed goddess of childbirth. Egyptian women looked to her for protection during childbirth and wore amulets with her image. She was depicted in paintings and statues in human form with the head of a frog. Heqet was the wife of Khnum the god of procreation (reproduction) who moulded the child and its ka (soul) within the womb, giving it the breath of life and then maintaining the health of the infant child after birth. Khnum was also a powerful protector of the dead and the god of rebirth and resurrection. As the wife of Khnum, Heqet was also associated with resurrection. [2, No Reserve]