Anubis - Guardian Between Worlds
"The heart remembers what the tongue forgets."
Anubis is one of the most recognizable gods of Ancient Egypt. Known as the guardian of the dead, he guided souls on their final journey and stood watch over one of the most important moments in Egyptian mythology: the Weighing of the Heart.
This artwork presents Anubis in three symbolic forms. Together they represent protection, justice and reflection.
At the centre of the composition, Anubis stands beside the sacred Scales of Ma'at. On the left scale rests the Feather of Ma'at, the symbol of truth, justice and balance. According to ancient Egyptian belief, every soul faced this weighing after death. The heart was placed on the opposite scale and compared with the feather. A heart that was as light as the feather showed a life lived with honesty, compassion and integrity. Such a soul was allowed to continue its journey into the afterlife.
The upper plate shows Anubis seated in quiet contemplation, holding his ceremonial staff. It represents a moment of stillness—a reminder that our choices shape who we become.
The lower portrait presents Anubis as the eternal guardian. Calm, watchful and unwavering, he stands as a protector between the world of the living and the world beyond.
Painted on reclaimed Dutch Delft Blue plates, this work brings together two cultural traditions. The delicate blue floral patterns of the porcelain contrast beautifully with the powerful figure of Anubis, creating a dialogue between Dutch heritage and the timeless symbolism of Ancient Egypt.
Rather than focusing on death, this artwork is about how we live. It invites us to reflect on honesty, balance and the choices we make every day.
If your heart were placed on the scales today, would it be as light as the Feather of Ma'at?
Anubis reminds us that true wealth is not measured by what we own, but by the life we have lived. The scales of Ma'at invite us to reflect on our choices, our integrity and the balance we bring to the world.
Dimensions: Height 120 cm × Width 37 cm
Medium: Acrylic paint on reclaimed ceramic plates, mounted on a solid wooden panel.