Egyptian Faience Amulet of Ptaikos, 3rd-2nd century BC
The dwarf god Ptaikos (aka Pataikos, Patek or Ptaichos) was an incarnation of Ptah-Seker. Ptaikos was very popular from the New Kingdom onward, providing protection from creatures, such as snakes and crocodiles. His counterpart was Bes, who was also portrayed as a dwarf god.
Here Ptaikos is depicted naked with a small body on bowed legs and a large head. He advertises his powers over evil by adopting a “master of animals” pose as he stands with each foot planted on the snout of a crocodile, whose tails wrap around to the back of the amulet. Ptaikos’ arms are bent at the elbows and he holds a snake in each hand. A skullcap covers his head and is surmounted by a scarab. A falcon is perched on each shoulder.
The inclusion of the falcons in the composition and the depiction of handling and taming of dangerous animals grants Ptaikos an affinity with another protective god, Harpokrates, in his role as the Child Horus/Horus the Savior. This relationship is strengthened by the representation of figures Isis and Nephthys who face outward at either side. As the mother and aunt, respectively, of Harpokrates the inclusion of these goddesses on the amulet make the connection to Harpokrates clear. A winged goddess, perhaps Nut, with the sun disk atop her head, is depicted in high relief at the back of the amulet. This goddess is responsible for protecting Ptaikos.
