Strung some four-and-forty centimetres in length and weighing scarcely fifty grams, this Middle Kingdom girdle (c. 2055–1650 B.C.), said to be from Thebes, is a miniature treasury of electrum, silver, and semi-precious stone. Six hollow electrum cowries, each painstakingly punched in two halves, soldered, and pierced for threading. With oblate lapis-lazuli and green-feldspar beads, amethyst...
Delicate yet imbued with potent symbolism, this captivating pendant dates from the Third Intermediate Period. With the twilight centuries of the New Kingdom now past, this miniature masterpiece of sacred adornment evokes the lingering splendour of a once radiant golden age. Fashioned from rich gold and vivid turquoise (a gemstone revered in Ancient Egyptian thought...
This exquisite double signet ring, dating from the New Kingdom period (c. 1550–1069 B.C.), showcases the refined artistry and symbolic richness characteristic of the era. Crafted from gold, the ring features a pair of cartouches, but instead of a name within the “shen-ring” oval cartouche, are two figures. The first figure is that of a...
A masterpiece of both delicate craftsmanship and regal symbolism, this ring, fashioned from gold in hollow bas-relief, boasts an intricate rectangular bezel framed by added spirals and stops, with a swollen, almost sculptural band that suggests opulence and command. Upon its surface, hieroglyphs elegantly proclaim Horemheb’s coronation name, accompanied by depictions of a scorpion, crocodile,...
Fashioned from thin, pliable gold, most likely hammered and cut with extraordinary care; this diadem features a tender procession of gazelle heads flanking a stag, all elegantly placed amid a rhythmic pattern of starbursts or stylised flowers. The design is simultaneously minimal and symbolic, capturing the Ancient Egyptian delight in naturalistic beauty and the divine...
Nestled within the esteemed halls of The Metropolitan Museum of Art resides a resplendent artefact from Ancient Egypt: the jewellery chest of Princess Sithathoryunet. Crafted during the Middle Kingdom, specifically the 12th Dynasty (c.1887–1813 B.C.), this exquisite chest exemplifies the opulence and artistry of its era. Discovered in a concealed niche within Sithathoryunet’s tomb near...
Dating from around c. 600-200 B.C., this golden inlaid depiction of a hawk or falcon in flight, would have been a representation of the deity Horus. Inlaid with multicoloured glass, the British Museum archives this piece as a pectoral. Based upon appearance, it appears the claws are missing and would have once been placed within...
A menat necklace was created out of a substantial keyhole-shaped counterpoise and an assortment of beaded strands. Despite its title of necklace, the menat necklace is seldom depicted being worn, but was most commonly carried by females engaging in sacred ceremonies and rituals. The necklace served as a percussion instrument, shaken to produce a calming...
Golden diadem and hair ornaments belonging to Lady Senebtisi (daughter of Apis, Lady of the House)Middle Kingdom, 12th Dynasty, c. 1859–1770 B.C.Burial spot discovered within Vizier Senwosret’s (vizier under Senwosret I) funerary complex, el-Lisht, Egypt. Unfortunately, since the discovery of her tomb in 1907, little has been discovered about Lady Senebtisi, but she lives on...
This string of glazed composition beads; with various colours and forms, including grapes and daisies, dates from the 18th Dynasty of Pharaonic Egypt. It is 32.5cm in length and was purchased from Hon Richard Bethell and acquired by the British Museum (EA57886) in 1925. The striking colours of both the amulets and the beadwork of...
