Second Intermediate Period

Armlet of Queen Ahhotep I

Armlet of Queen Ahhotep I

When it was found among the mummy’s hair, this gold armlet of Ahhotep I was thought to be a crown. Because of its diameter, however, it is certain that it was to be worn round the arm for protection. The armlet is inlaid with lapis lazuli and carnelian and decorated with vulture of gold and...

Bracelet of Queen Ahhotep I

Bracelet of Queen Ahhotep I

This bracelet of Queen Ahhotep I is formed with two semicircles. Gold and lapis-lazuli were used to create its beautiful two-color decoration. The right semicircle depicts Geb, the god of earth, wearing the double crown and seated on the throne. His hands rest on a sign of protection that is on the shoulder and arm...

Gold Inlaid Pectoral of Queen Ahhotep I

Gold Inlaid Pectoral of Queen Ahhotep I

This inlaid pectoral of Queen Ahhotep I is in the shape of a shrine. Its base is decorated with wavy lines in reference to the primeval water. It is protected by two falcons. In the center of a boat, King Ahmose I is shown with the gods Re and Amun. The two gods are pouring...

Golden Flies of Queen Ahhotep I

Necklace of Ahhotep with Golden Flies

Necklace of Queen Ahhotep I, or Iah (“peace of the moon”) with golden flies. The fly symbolized tenacity, this ceremonial necklace given as award for valor in battle. This necklace, with three pendants in the form of flies, was given to queen Ahhotep by her two sons Kamose and Ahmose in gratitude for her supportive...

Beaded Bracelet of Queen Ahhotep

Beaded Bracelet of Queen Ahhotep

The beaded bracelet of Ahhotep is a remarkable piece of jewelry that showcases the artistic and craftsmanship skills of the time. The bracelet, which is one of a pair, was found along with other jewels inside her sarcophagus. It is composed of 30 rows of gold beads and semi-precious stones (lapis lazuli, turquoise and carnelian),...