The djed is one of the oldest and common amulet. Originally described as the four columns supporting the sky1,2, the amulet was later assimilated to the backbone of Osiris2, a symbol of stability. Mostly in green and blue faience, carnelian and lapis lazuli. Position on mummies: throat, upper and lower torso2. From Dynasty 6 to the Roman period2
Carnelian H 3.0
New Kingdom
Dynasty 19
MET #15.43.63
Blue glaze with dorsal pillar
H 2.7, W 0.9, D 0.7
Late Period
Private collection DA
Unusual green glaze
with sun disc and dorsal pillar H 2.2, W 1.0
Late Period
Museo Egizio #1067
Unusual yellow glass with atef crown H 3.4, W 1.3
Ptolemaic Period
MET #17.194.2528
References
1Maspero G. Guide du visiteur du Musée du Caire, 1902. Imprimerie de l’IFAO p. 105
2Petrie W M F. Amulets, 1914, p. 15 and Figs. 35 c-g