Ruthie Rollins receives the 2012 Woolford B. Baker Service Award
Wedjat Eye Amulet Egyptian, Ptolemaic Period 332–30 bc Electrum Gift of Sally and Joe Gladden in honor of Ruthie Rollins, 2012 Woolford B. Baker Service Award recipient. The wedjat eye amulet was the most potent of all ancient Egyptian magical symbols, representing the left eye of the god Horus. Although poked out during Horus’ epic battle with the god Seth to avenge the murder of Osiris, the eye magically came to life and began to fly. The wedjat eye became an important symbol of healing and protection. As an amulet it was worn by the living as well as the dead, being placed on mummies to ensure resurrection. It was painted on the prows of ships to grant them safe passage, even used as a symbol of fractions in mathematics. And when associated with the goddess Wadjet of Lower Egypt and a number of other female goddesses, the eye was often combined with a cobra.
This fine example is made of electrum, an alloy of silver and gold that occurs naturally in Egypt. It is decorated with tiny electrum balls in a technique known as granulation, which was invented in the Near East during the third millennium bc. While granulation had been used in Egypt, it was particularly favored by the Greeks as seen in this beautiful example from the Ptolemaic Period when Hellenistic styles were fashionable.
top: Wedjat eye amulet. 14
spring-summer 2013
for over twenty years, Ruthie Rollins has demonstrated her personal commitment to the Carlos Museum by contributing her time, talent, and treasure to virtually every aspect of the Museum. Mrs. Rollins served on the Advisory Board for ten years during which time she served on multiple committees, assisted with expansion fundraising efforts, helped to revitalize patron membership programs, and hosted visiting scholars. One of the most active fundraisers for the Museum, Mrs. Rollins served on numerous benefit committees, advised staff on development efforts, hosted luncheons for potential supporters, traveled with members on Museum trips, and set a personal example by continuously maintaining the highest level of membership available. Mrs. Rollins was also a founder and facilitator of The Carlos Partnership, a group of community patrons supporting the Museum with annual gifts at the highest level.
above: Ruthie Rollins and family.