Feline-Headed Girdle, Anklets, and Bracelets of Princess Sithathoryunet

Middle Kingdom

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 111

These five pieces made from gold and amethyst create a set with powerful magical properties. All of the elements focus on feline imagery, which can be related to protection and guardianship. The princess likely wore them during a religious ritual or state ceremony. The feline heads on the girdle contain small pellets that would have made a gentle tinkling sound when the princess walked or danced. One head forms a cleverly constructed clasp.

Feline-Headed Girdle, Anklets, and Bracelets of Princess Sithathoryunet, Gold, amethyst, diorite pellets (inside)

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Group of amethyst jewelry: lion bracelets 16.1.14a, 16.1.15a; leapard girdle 16.1.6; claw anklets 16.1.7a, 16.1.7b.