Horse Handle

This handle likely belonged to a whip or perhaps a fly whisk. Intricately carved from a piece of ivory, it takes the form of a galloping horse. The ivory is stained reddish-brown pigment, with a painted black mane. A wonderful addition is the featuring of garnet inlays for the eyes—one of which is now missing, which provides a lifelike glisten as the light reflects upon them. Ancient Egyptians had a taste for reflective inlaid eyes as far back as the Old Kingdom, and inlaid eyes began before the Unification, with figures of ivory having eyes made of precious stone as far back as the Pre-Dynastic age.

The location of which this piece was found is unknown at the present, however it was a part of the Carnavon Collection and acquired by the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, from Lady Carnarvon in 1926. It dates from the Late 18th Dynasty (c. 1390–1352 B.C.), and highlights the high level of craftsmanship achieved in decorative arts during the reign of Amenhotep III.

The Horse in Ancient Egypt

It is believed that horses were not native to Ancient Egypt, and it is generally accepted that they were introduced during the Second Intermediate Period, c.1667–1570 B.C., a time of Hyksos domination in northern Egypt. The Hyksos, a foreign dynasty from the Near East, brought with them significant innovations, including the horse and chariot, which revolutionized Egyptian warfare and transportation. These animals quickly became a symbol of power and prestige, reshaping the military landscape of Egypt.

During the New Kingdom, c. 1550–1070 B.C., horses gained prominence, becoming central to the Egyptian military and royal court. Pharaohs such as Amenhotep II and Ramses II used chariotry extensively in military campaigns, elevating the horse to a status of strategic importance. Beyond warfare, horses became symbols of wealth and status, often depicted in ceremonial scenes and processions. They were associated with the elite, as maintaining horses required significant resources.

The artistic depictions of horses in Ancient Egypt, particularly during the Amarna period, reflect the Egyptians’ deep appreciation for their beauty and strength. Artists skilfully captured the essence of these animals, often portraying them in dynamic poses, such as galloping or rearing, with meticulous attention to detail. In addition to art, objects like whip handles, fly whisks, and decorative reliefs featuring horses exemplified the craftsmanship of the time.

Horses were also woven into the religious and symbolic fabric of Egypt. They were often associated with the sun god Ra, their swift and tireless nature symbolizing the solar chariot racing across the sky. Despite their practical and symbolic importance, horses were not commonly used for agricultural or transport purposes, as donkeys and oxen remained the primary animals for labour.

In conclusion, the arrival of the horse in Ancient Egypt marked a turning point in the nation’s history, influencing its military, art, and culture. While initially a foreign import, the horse quickly became an integral part of Egyptian society, embodying power, grace, and prestige.

Summary:

Ivory handle in the form of a horse, with pigment and eyes of garnet

New Kingdom, 18th Dynasty, reign of Amenhotep III, c. 1390–1352 B.C.