Late Period, 664-332 BC. A glazed faience amulet of Ptah-Soker in the form of a bandy-legged dwarf standing on a rectangular plaque; naked with large bald head, hands held to the side; pierced through the back of the neck for suspension. 10.2 grams, 44mm (1 3/4"). From an important French collection formed since the early 1960s. 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 the representations of Ptah, the god of craftsman, as a dwarf - 'Pataikos' literally means 'little Ptah'. He also records that Pataikos was regarded as the son of Ptah. Fine condition.