A pair of Babylonian gold Spiral Beads set as Earrings, Old Babylonian Period, ca. 1894 – 1595 BCE Amulets Seals Scarabs Works of Art and Finds

Works of Art and Finds from the Old and New Excavations

collected during the 1950s–1960s

an intentional aesthetic in ancient Mesopotamian metalwork

the top of his head with moon and crescent headdress

the amulet represents the healed eye of the god Horus and embodies healing power as well as regeneration and protection

A pair of Babylonian gold Spiral Beads set as Earrings, Old Babylonian Period, ca. 1894 – 1595 BCE Amulets Seals Scarabs Works of Art and FindsThese exquisite ancient gold spiral beads are formed using a labor intensive technique of heating and hammering fine gold wire, skillfully shaped into coiled spiral patterns without cutting or soldering. This seamless construction not only enhances their visual symmetry but also conceals the artists hand, an intentional aesthetic in ancient Mesopotamian metalwork. Gold in the ancient world was more than a precious material; it was revered for its