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Paper short abstract

Artifacts with similarities to the Egyptian cylindrical pendants and the oracular amuletic decree cases were found in several Mediterranean regions, suggesting that there was a diffusion of these two kinds of objects.

Paper long abstract

Ancient Egyptians developed a diversified set of magical mechanisms for child protection. Among amulets, we can emphasize two kinds of objects which have some physical similarities and that were to be used suspending with a string in the neck: the cylindrical pendants and the oracular amuletic decree cases. The former had a cylindrical shape, although its exterior decoration could differ. Some were hollow and could contain inside amulets, garnets, and possibly papyrus. The latter consisted in small papyrus rolls which contained divine promises of protection towards several perils, which were kept inside cylindrical cases.

The aim of our communication is to make a comparison with artifacts found in Mediterranean regions which contain Egyptian motifs. Thus, we intend to perceive if there was a diffusion of Egyptian models among Mediterranean civilizations.