The Egyptian Ankh
What is Ankh, and why is it related to Egypt?
The Ankh, also known as the Key of Life, is one of the most recognizable symbols from ancient Egypt. The Ankh was used to represent the concept of life in Egyptian hieroglyphics. The Ankh was often depicted in the hands of gods and pharaohs, and it was believed to grant its bearer eternal life.
The exact origins of the Ankh are unknown, but it is thought to have first appeared in the Early Dynastic Period, between 3100-2686 BC. The symbol may have evolved from several different sources, including the hieroglyph for "breath", the Egyptian word for "life", or even the shape of the Nile River.
Egyptian Ankh in fashion and art
Whatever its origins, the Ankh quickly became one of the most important symbols in Egyptian culture. The Egyptians used it in a variety of contexts, including religious rituals, funerary practices, and everyday life. The ancient Egyptians often depicted the Ankh in paintings and sculptures. The Egyptians also used the Ankh in Fashion and ancient Egyptian clothing, as in jewelry or amulets.
The Egyptians believed the Ankh possessed a number of magical properties. All across Egypt, they believed it would grant its bearer eternal life, health, and fertility. They also believed that the Ankh was able to protect its bearer from evil spirits and diseases.
Ankh in Ancient Egypt
The ancient Egyptians often depicted the Ankh in the hands of the old Egyptian gods, such as Osiris, Isis, and Ra. Those gods were associated with life, death, and the afterlife. Therefore, the Egyptians placed the Ankh in tombs to help the deceased in their journey to the afterlife!
The Ankh continued to be used in Egyptian culture for centuries, and it even survived into the Coptic period, between 300-641 AD. The Egyptians to this day still respect and cherish the Ankh, and see it as a symbol of hope and renewal.
The Ankh is a fascinating symbol with a long and rich history. It is a reminder of the importance of life in ancient Egyptian culture, and it continues to be a source of inspiration for people all over the world.
We proudly chose the ANKH to be our brand symbol and as inspiration for our lines in fashion and clothing