Cats were considered sacred in ancient Egypt. They represented Bastet, the cat-headed goddess of Bubastis, a city in the northeastern delta of Lower Egypt. Originally linked to the sun god Ra, Bastet came to be associated with the life preserving power of the sun, the protection of women, felicity and joy. Our cat is a reproduction of a faience (glazed earthenware) amulet. Cat amulets were commonly worn on necklaces during the 22nd and 23rd dynasties to invoke the blessing of Bastet. Crafted from turquoise, sodalite, carnelian, pewter cats with gold finish, and toggle and bar closure. Measures 7.5 in.