Necklace of Wah

Middle Kingdom
ca. 1981–1975 B.C.
Not on view
After Wah's mummy had been partially wrapped, this necklace of silver beads was tied around the neck. The beads were strung on twelve or more strands of thread that were then twisted through ties of thick linen cord.

Three other necklaces had been placed on the mummy in the same position. One of these is made of gold beads (40.3.17); one is made of blue faience beads (40.3.18); and one is strung with beads of a variety of shapes and materials (40.3.16). All these necklaces were probably worn by Wah during his lifetime.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Necklace of Wah
  • Period: Middle Kingdom
  • Dynasty: Dynasty 12
  • Reign: reign of Amenemhat I, early
  • Date: ca. 1981–1975 B.C.
  • Geography: From Egypt, Upper Egypt, Thebes, Southern Asasif, Tomb of Wah (MMA 1102), Mummy, bandages at neck, MMA excavations, 1920
  • Medium: Silver, linen cord
  • Dimensions: L. of necklace 70.5 cm (27 3/4 in.); Greatest diam. 3.2 cm (1 1/4 in.); Smallest diam. 2.5 cm (1 in.)
  • Credit Line: Rogers Fund and Edward S. Harkness Gift, 1940
  • Object Number: 40.3.19
  • Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art

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