An ancient Egyptian light blue glazed faience mummiform shabti. The figure is depicted standing, and though the features are now mostly worn, the facial features are still slightly distinguishable and a long, rectangular beard beneath the chin. The figure is portrayed with arms folded across the chest, likely holding the crook and flail, and donning a tripartite wig. The reverse is smooth and unadorned. Encrustations and yellowish brown discolouration to the surface. Signs of wear as consistent with age such as pitting, indentations. A small chip to the front of the base. 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 5.8cm x W 1.5cm Provenance: Early 20th Century UK Collection