The original of this relief resides in the British Museum in London. Originally from 18th Dynasty Egypt (1500 B.C.), this striking reproduction represents the ceremony of the weighing of the heart in the hall of judgement after death. The deceased is introduced into the hall of judgement by the jackal-headed God Anubis. His or her heart is placed in one of the pans of the scale to be weighed against the feather of truth of the Goddess Maat. Anubis then adjusts the plummet while Thoth, God of Wisdom, usually seen as Ibis- headed, writes down the outcome. Nearby, a demon, the "eater of Hearts", a composite of a crocodile, lion and hippopotamus waits for the verdict against the deceased, when the heart will be thrown to it. With a satisfactory verdict, the deceased is then led by Horus to Osiris where he/she is presented as one "true of voice, justified" and a suitable candidate to be admiited into the joys of the netherworld.
This beautiful black relief is made of hydrostone and measures 9.75" x 10" wide. Outlined in white, the relief is subtle, yet striking against the black background. A superior quality product.
