Ankh
Ancient Egyptian hieroglyph representing life and immortality.
Ancient Egyptian · c. 3100 BCE – present
Djed Pillar
Ancient Egyptian symbol of stability and the backbone of Osiris.
Description
The djed (ḏd) is one of the most ancient and commonly found symbols in Egyptian art. It is a pillar-like symbol with a broad base and a series of horizontal bands at the top. The djed is associated with the god Osiris and represents stability and endurance. It is often interpreted as the backbone or spine of Osiris. The 'Raising of the Djed' was an important ritual performed during the Sed festival and at the beginning of the agricultural season.
Origin & Cultural Context
The djed symbol appears as early as the First Dynasty (c. 3100 BCE) and may have originated as a fetish object or a bundle of reeds.