Inlaid Gold Bracelet of Psusennes I

This inlaid gold bracelet was found on the right arm of King Psusennes I’s mummy, although it is inscribed on the inside with the word “Iabet” meaning “east” or “left”. The burial chamber of Psusennes I, third king of the 21st Dynasty, contained many pieces of jewelry, among which were two identical bracelets.

The bracelet is made of two separate solid pieces, unequal in size, joined by an attachment hidden under the inlay. The upper and lower edges are adorned with spirals in relief and small triangles encrusted with lapis lazuli.

The outside bears an inscription in gold relief set within lapis lazuli inlays. The inscription gives the birth and throne names of the king as well as his titles.

Bracelets and anklets were items of major importance for the protection of the mummy as the role of their patterns was to guarantee immortality to the deceased.

In total, 26 bracelets and anklets were found on Psusennes’ mummy, 10 on the right arm, 12 on the left, 2 above the knees, and 2 at the ankles.

Third Intermediate Period, 21st Dynasty, reign of Psusennes I, ca. 1047-1001 BC. Now in the Egyptian Museum, Cairo. JE 85160