A fine Ancient Egyptian faience mummiform worker shabti. The figure is depicted standing, and with arms folded across the chest. The farm equipment being carried is portrayed through triangles of dark pigment over either shoulder and a hatched rectangle on the flat reverse representing a seed basket. A tripartite wig and headband in dark pigment sit on top of the head. Facial features have been depicted stylistically and are still visible. Encrustations and some discolouration to the surface. Signs of wear as consistent with age, such as surface pitting, indentations, and chips. The shabti has been repaired under the head and across the legs, with the cracks and glue residue still visible. 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) L 10.2cm x W 3.1cm Provenance: Acquired on the London art market, 1970s.