A fine, ancient Egyptian hair ring carved from a deep red carnelian, featuring a semicircular profile and an opening on one side. Crafted with intricate detailing, they reflect the artistry of the era in which they were made. Symbolising beauty and status they were used in a variety of hairstyles as a means of distinguishing between social classes. Earthly encrustations to the surface and minor chips to the edges. Carnelian is a semi-precious stone which was used frequently by Egyptians of all social classes and was an extremely popular material from the Dynastic Egyptian period up until the Roman period. Its origins can be traced back to the Bronze age with similar ornaments and beads being found in Mesopotamia. As well as it’s utility as a hair bead as seen here, carnelian was also used for amulets, small figurines, and inlay works. Due to its fiery colour, carnelian was also associated with the blood-lust and rage of Egyptian deities. It is further connected to the sun god Re, and was often used in jewellery for sun disks and to represent the eye of Horus. Measurements: W 1.7cm x H 1cm Provenance: From an early 20th century collection.