The burial of the dead in Ancient Egypt was an elaborate and ritualised process, with beaded masks and adornments rising in popularity in the Late Period (c. 713-332 BCE). As symbols of rebirth and regeneration, the scarab was laid near to the chest wherein lay the heart and final resting place of the soul. However, the Four Sons of Horus were positioned slightly lower, suggestive of their role as protectors of the organs: Imsety protected the liver, while Duamutef was assigned the stomach, Hapi the lungs, and Qebehsenuef the intestines. These four protected organs were in fact removed from the body, and embalmed before being stored within corresponding jars. By contrast, the brain was thought of as inconsequential and therefore simply discarded.
Framed Ancient Egyptian Faience Beaded Panel with the Four Sons of Horus and Winged Scarab
£ 200.00
An Ancient Egyptian panel consisting of small faience beads glazed with rich turquoises and greens restrung according to its original arrangement. Depicted at the bottom of the composition in green and turquoise discoid beads are the Four Sons of Horus: Imsety, Duamutef, Hapi and Qebehsenuef. Above these figures features is a winged scarab with red-beaded eyes, which is connected to the wider panel via tubular cream- and blue-toned beads. This imagery would likely have formed part of a wider tripartite work, additionally featuring a stylised face of the deceased, onto which this piece was placed at burial to serve both decorative and protective functions. It is also possible that this specific beadwork may have alternatively lain disconnected to the facial element, and was placed upon the mummy’s chest as a pectoral embellishment.
Period: Late Dynastic Period
Condition: Very fine condition with occasional bead wear.
In stock
Weight | 389.5 g |
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Dimensions | L 15.3 x W 20.2 cm |
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Faience | |
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