New Kingdom, 1550-1070 BC. A carved yellow carnelian fly amulet, ribbed body and detailed legs; pierced for suspension. 0.8 grams, 15mm (1/2"). From the property of a London gentleman; thence by descent; previously in an important private Mayfair, London collection, acquired after 1970. The origin of the fly amulet goes back to the predynastic period (pre 3,100 BC"). It is possible that the fly amulet symbol arose from a wish to emulate the fly's renowned fecundity. These amulets were made in a variety of materials, including gold, and The Golden Fly was used in the New Kingdom as an honorific award for military valour. No fewer than thirty three fly amulets came from the tomb of the wives of Tuthmosis the Third.