Third Intermediate Period Egyptian Faience Shabti in Egyptian Blue Glaze

Description

shown mummiform with details in black pigment, the small figure with a short tripartite wig in black pigment, the crossed arms with clenched hands each holding agricultural tools for work in the afterlife, an untranslated vertical column of text on the front.

Ushabtis (aka shabti,) were figures placed in Egyptian tombs in order to serve the deceased in the afterlife. They hold objects (in this case a flail in each fist, the right hand also holding a twisted rope connected to an seed sack behind the left shoulder) that they use for agricultural work, and are carved with inscriptions; usually a passage from the Book of the Dead.

Dimensions: Height: 3 inches (7.62 cm)

Condition: Intact with extensive wear and rubbing throughout. Mounted to a frosted lucite base.

Provenance: Ex South Florida private collection, acquired in the 1960’s.