This design depicts a jackal-headed figure wearing pharaonic regalia, referencing Anubis, the Egyptian deity associated with mummification and guiding the dead to the afterlife. The cobra headpiece, ankh symbols and lotus motifs reinforce themes of protection, death and rebirth found in ancient Egyptian belief. People choose this image for its associations with guardianship, transition, and reverence for the dead, though some wear it simply for the graphic appeal of Egyptian iconography.

Where it sits

The symmetrical, shield-like shape with tapering ears at the top and a wide rounded base suits the upper back, chest, or a large forearm panel where its natural taper can be followed. It also works well scaled down slightly for a thigh or shoulder cap piece, following the curve of the muscle. At smaller sizes the fine dot shading and geometric collar patterning would blur together, so this piece needs a reasonably large canvas to keep its linework distinct.

Making it yours

Ask an artist for any of these.

  • Drop the cobra headpiece for a plainer crown or skip it entirely
  • Add colour to the ankh symbols and lotus flowers for contrast
  • Scale down the collar and shoulder plates for a smaller chest piece
  • Remove the feather at the centre and replace with a scarab symbol
  • Pair with hieroglyphic script along the collarbone or forearm
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