String of beads
Even in the earliest graves, everyone was buried wearing their favorite ornaments. Jewelry was simple: necklaces, bracelets, and anklets. Amulets, semi-diadems (forehead ornaments), and belts occasionally occur. Jewelry often provided protection through its shape, material, and color; some pieces conferred status through type or material.
This necklace, of clay and carnelian beads, was found with the burial of a child, along with a number of other luxury and prestige items (see 09.182.1-.8). Clearly the child was born into a wealthy and powerful family, and acquired his or her status through birth.
This necklace, of clay and carnelian beads, was found with the burial of a child, along with a number of other luxury and prestige items (see 09.182.1-.8). Clearly the child was born into a wealthy and powerful family, and acquired his or her status through birth.
Artwork Details
- Title: String of beads
- Period: Predynastic, Late Naqada l–Naqada II
- Date: ca. 3900–3650 B.C.
- Geography: From Egypt, Northern Upper Egypt, Mahasna, Tomb H 85, EEF excavations 1908–1909
- Medium: Clay (unfired), Carnelian
- Dimensions: L. 44 cm (17 5/16 in.)
- Credit Line: Gift of The Egypt Exploration Fund, 1909
- Object Number: 09.182.5
- Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art
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