archaicwonder:Egyptian Rock Crystal Fly Amulet, New Kingdom, c. 1550-1069 BCAn amulet with a long hi
archaicwonder:Egyptian Rock Crystal Fly Amulet, New Kingdom, c. 1550-1069 BCAn amulet with a long history, already found in burials of the predynastic Naqada 2nd period before 3100 BC, is the stylized fly (afef) always recognizable from its characteristic wing configuration even when the head is not clearly distinguished. Egyptians acknowledged the fly’s tenacity in the form of a military decoration known as the “Order of the Golden Fly” or “Fly of Valor.” These fly amulets were awarded for bravery in battle, perhaps because of the fly’s persistence in the face of opposition. A military official named Ahmose-Pennekhbet proudly records that he was awarded six of these honorific flys. The fly is even a central figure in Egyptian mythology which states that the fly gave protection against disease or misfortune. -- source link