Ankh

The ankh was the Egyptian hieroglyphic character that stood for the word ʿnḫ, meaning life. Egyptian gods are often portrayed carrying it by its loop, or bearing one in each hand, arms crossed over their chest. It is also known as the Egyptian Cross, or as crux ansata, Latin for "cross with a handle". "Ankhs" are viewed as a protective symbol. Many Ancient Egyptian Gods are seen holding this item.

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Ankh Media

The ankh has a T-shape topped by a droplet-shaped loop.
First Dynasty stone dish in the shape of an ankh embraced by a pair of arms representing the ka^[1]
Imprint of a seal impression of King Hezekiah with ankhs
A crux ansata in Codex Glazier, a Coptic manuscript of the New Testament, 4th to 5th century AD
Crux ansata signs on a piece of cloth, 4th to 5th century AD
An ankh made of Egyptian faience
The god Horus offers life to the king, Ramesses II.
Ankh-shaped mirror case from the tomb of Tutankhamun
The god Banebdjedet with a scepter combining the was and djed with the ankh
Frieze of ankh, djed, and was signs atop the hieroglyph for "all"

↑ Fischer 1972, p. 5.

[FOOTNOTEFischer19725-1] Fischer 1972, p. 5.

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