No. 99609559

Ancient Egypt, Late Period Faience Shabti
No. 99609559

Ancient Egypt, Late Period Faience Shabti
An ancient Egyptian faience mummiform shabti. The figure is depicted standing, and though the features are now mostly worn, the facial features are still distinguishable and a long, rectangular beard beneath the chin. The figure is portrayed with arms folded across the chest, holding the crook and flail, and donning a tripartite wig. The reverse is smooth and unadorned. Encrustations and some discolouration to the surface. Signs of wear as consistent with age such as pitting, indentations, minor chips, and damage to the glaze in some areas.
Shabtis (or ushabtis) were figurines in mummified form, which were placed in Egyptian tombs to do any work required by the deceased in the afterlife. They were often inscribed with a special formula (Shabti formula), which would call them to life when recited. Sometimes shabtis were also inscribed with passages from the Book of the Dead, the intention of which was to secure safety for the deceased in the afterlife. Shabtis were mostly made of faience, but wood, bronze, and stone were also used – towards the Late Period, the number of shabtis inside the tomb increased, eventually allowing one for each day of the year.
Measurements: (circa) H 6.5cm x W 2.1cm
Provenance: Early 20th Century UK Collection
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